HARTFORD, Conn. -- Congress’ Energy Independence and Global Warming Committee held a hearing Monday at the Mark Twain House, officials said, to discuss how cutting pollution and reducing global warming can be smart moves for companies.

“Some believe that doing the right thing for the environment and for one's shareholders must be mutually exclusive,” said Rep. John Larson, 1st District. “This hearing today, I believe, will leave no doubt that the ideas and innovations that are good for the environment will also be good for businesses’ bottom lines.”

Officials said the reason the hearing was held in Connecticut rather than Capitol Hill in Washington, where such meetings are usually held, is that two of Connecticut's best-known companies are big on green energy.

“In a world defined by a quest to develop renewable and alternative energy, Connecticut can be the epicenter of that world,” said Rep. Christopher Murphy, 5th District.

Two of those Connecticut companies – General Electric and United Technologies Corp. -- testified at the hearing. Representatives said many projects they have under way are to improve efficiency and produce greener products. After many years of being in the field without many followers, they said, those Connecticut companies are suddenly leading a big pack.

“That’s because we have a legacy of more than a century of cheap energy, nearly free energy, and because it is free, we've learned to waste it,” said United Technologies Corp. CEO George David.

“Some ask if we can afford to invest, when the real question is whether we can afford not to,” said John Rice, GE vice chairman.

Officials said they hope the suggestions from the business world will help save the rest of the world.