PROVIDENCE — Entrepreneurs and state policymakers spoke Wednesday about what they said is a bright future for clean energy in Rhode Island.

With federal stimulus money on the way and with an ambitious offshore wind energy project in the works, the state is well-positioned in the green-power industry, Andrew Dzykewicz told the approximately 45 people attending the event sponsored by the Rhode Island council of MoveOn.

“I think there’s a tremendous opportunity,” he said.

The event was held as Congress debates an ambitious energy and climate bill that could have far-reaching effects on the green-power industry. The American Clean Energy and Security Act cleared its first hurdle last week when it won approval from the House of Representatives’ Energy and Commerce Committee. The legislation requires an increase in the use of renewable sources of energy and, among other measures, sets new efficiency standards for buildings. Environmental advocacy groups have come out in support of the bill, saying that it will create new green jobs.

Speakers at the information session included Robert Chew, director of wind energy for Alteris Renewables; W. Michael Sullivan, director of the state Department of Environmental Management; and Julian Dash, director of the state Renewable Energy Fund.

akuffner@projo.com