Henry Waxman (D-Calif.) is the chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, which means he spends a lot of time dealing with energy companies and, as a result, the whole “going green” issue. And  yesterday, as Congress had a hearing on global warming, Waxman promised that the process of going green would come quickly (at least on Congress’ side).

The Associated Press (via Google news) tells the story of the hearing:

To dramatize the business community’s growing consensus that the climate issue must be confronted, Waxman invited to the first hearing 14 corporate executives and environmental leaders who have pressed for an 80 percent reduction in greenhouse gases by 2050.

Speaking during the hearing, Waxman emphasized the role government may need to play for industry to get greener, quicker.

‘Our environment and our economy depend on congressional action to confront the threat of climate change and secure our energy independence,’ said Waxman. ‘U.S. industries want to invest in a clean energy future, but uncertainties about whether, when and how greenhouse gas emissions will be reduced is deterring these vital investments.’

The House, as we mentioned yesterday, has already earmarked $54 billion for renewable energy projects, so that’s a good sign. You can takepart with the US Department of Energy’s Efficient and Renewable Energy website to stay on top of the issue, as seen by the government.