"Even as we face tough economic times, even as we continue to lose jobs, the CEOs here told me that they are looking to hire new people, in some cases to double or even triple in size over the next few years. They are making money and they are helping their customers save money on the energy front," the US President said.

These companies are vivid examples of the kind of future the US can create, but it is now up to the Senate to continue the work that was begun in the House to forge this more prosperous future, he said.

Hara builds software that allows companies to track their use of natural resources and their carbon emissions. It is currently being used by companies such as Coca-Cola and the city of Palo Alto to help save millions of dollars in expenses related to waste and energy use.

"We believe that by establishing business processes and leveraging best practices focused on environmental and energy management, organisations can cut energy costs and emissions rather than cutting jobs," Chatterjee said.