Global software analytics firm SAS is the latest company to join the Research Triangle Cleantech Cluster.

The cluster has been organized by the Research Triangle Regional Partnership.

Other recent additions include Duke Energy and Sensus.

Other members include ABB, Siemens and PowerSecure.

“This is a transformational time for the utilities industry, which must analyze the tsunami of data it produces to realize the efficiencies and savings a more intelligent grid will achieve,” said Tim Fairchild, SAS Global Utilities Practice Director.

SAS sees smartgrid and other cleantech industries as markets for its analytics technology.

“Powerful SAS Analytics coupled with the innovation and leadership SAS’ utilities customers already exhibit will help make smart grid a reality in the Research Triangle and beyond,” Fairchild said.” SAS firmly believes in the triple-helix model, and we look forward to collaborating with the other founding members to achieve the RTCC‘s goals.”

The Triangle partnership launched the cleantech initiative to capitalize on an increasing presence of smartgrid and related technology firms in the region.

“We are pleased that SAS is helping lead the development of the Research Triangle’s world-class cleantech cluster,” said Lee Anne Nance, senior vice president of strategic initiatives with the partnership. “SAS’ role in cleantech, along with its proven innovation and creativity, is a tremendous asset to the RTCC as we sustain and grow our cleantech economy.”