STATEMENT
Of the
Honorable Nydia M. Velázquez, Chairwoman
House Committee on Small Business
"Small Businesses at the Forefront of the Green Revolution: What More Needs to Be Done to Keep Them Here?"
July 11, 2007

I now call this hearing to order entitled:  “Small Businesses at the Forefront of the Green Revolution: What More Needs to Be Done to Keep Them Here?"

Since the beginning of the 110th Congress, this committee has considered a wide variety of energy related issues.  Whether it be renewable fuels production or installation of equipment to improve energy efficiency – small businesses are making our world a better place and building “green” is no exception.   Today’s hearing will explore further just how small businesses are playing a critical role in improving conservation and energy efficiency while expanding the so-called green economy.  Entrepreneurs are leading the effort to combat global climate change by takings steps to reduce energy consumption.  

One of the major developments over the last decade has been the profound growth of building green.   Green buildings are environmentally responsible, economically viable, and healthier places to work and live.  It started out as a novel concept that seemed to be out of reach for many.  Now, firms across the country are looking for ways to incorporate these practices and achieve certification.

Due to this growth, it will soon become the norm to have an energy efficient and environmentally sensitive building or home.  As installers of solar panels, inventors of bio-based products, or the architects who create the designs – small businesses are responsible for much of the rapid growth in green homes and buildings. 

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) – who have representatives here today – reported a 20 percent jump last year in home builders focused on environmentally responsible construction.  It is estimated that some 50 percent of all builders will produce at least some homes using green methods by 2010.

Our first panel shows us the government can play an effective role in encouraging further innovation in green infrastructure.  These three mayors have been at the forefront and have put in place policies that have allowed small firms to flourish in their communities while protecting the environment. 

They have provided educational tools, financial incentives, and an overall structure that makes a “green” small business economically viable.  I look forward to their insight on these successful programs and how the federal government may be able provide similar assistance. 

 This Congress has already started taking steps to ensure not only are we creating domestic supplies of clean energy, but that the federal government can reduce overall consumption. The Small Business Committee has passed 4 pieces of legislation that provide education, financing, and resources on energy efficiency and production. 

Building green is not only good for our environment – it is also good for our economy because it will add new employment opportunities.  Developing this relatively new sector of our economy will add a new facet to our workforce through “green collar jobs.” 

While we celebrated our Nation’s independence day last week, it is clear America has a long way to go when it comes to energy independence.  Whether it is providing better financing options for a green building or technical assistance through an SBDC to identify energy-efficient practices, we must invest in the resources necessary to encourage small businesses to adopt these methods.

I look forward to hearing about what policies have been successful and if there are additional reforms needed to ensure future growth. 

I appreciate the witnesses coming here today. I yield to the Ranking Member Mr. Chabot for his opening statement.