The following video is part of our "Motley Fool Conversations" series, in which industrials editor/analyst Isaac Pino and industrials editor/analyst Brendan Byrnes discuss topics across the investing world.

The tech world receives all of the attention these days when it comes to patent awards and innovative devices that could revolutionize our lives. So when General Electric gets recognized above and beyond Apple or Intel, investors should take note. Recently, GE topped the list for clean energy patents introduced in 2011, beating companies all over the world, including Samsung and Toyota.  A few weeks later the Maplecroft Climate Innovation study, widely considered the single most exhaustive study of the U.S.' largest companies in dealing with climate change, also gave GE the top billing. For buy-and-hold investors, GE's broad array of bets in clean energy representative incredible potential for growth. Click on the video below to see how companies identified in the innovation study are changing their industries.

For GE, the recent financial crisis struck a blow, but management was able to execute savvy acquisitions during the market's dip. The company made big bets in energy, but also took steps to strengthen its balance sheet. If you're a GE investor, you need to understand how these bets could drive this company to become the world's infrastructure leader. At the same time, you need to be aware of the threats to GE's portfolio. To help, we're offering comprehensive coverage for investors in a premium report on General Electric. Our industrials analyst breaks down GE's product portfolio. You'll find reasons to buy or sell GE, and you'll receive continuing updates as major events strike during the year. To get started, click here now.