"Energy efficiency is one of our top priorities," said Gavin Dillingham, Chief of Sustainable Growth - General Services Department, for the City of Houston. "Partnering with the TexasIsHot Coalition will help us educate citizens and local businesses about energy-efficient practices in order to meet our goal of reducing residential and commercial electric use."

"Fluctuating energy costs are really hurting Texas families and businesses, but by making a few easy changes, Texans can cut down on energy waste," said State Senator Rodney Ellis (D-Houston). "TexasIsHot.org is a tremendous resource that arms consumers with the information they need to save themselves money by becoming more energy efficient, and help our environment."

"We are excited to have the City of Houston as a Coalition member," said John King, a TexasIsHot Coalition spokesperson. "We believe Houston is the first of many cities who will join in our effort to provide Texans with energy efficiency tips to help lower electric bills and help the environment."

According to Green Houston, the City's demand-side reduction programs and initiatives have reduced kWh use by 5.8 percent from 2004 through 2007, even as services expanded.

"The City of Houston is working harder than ever to make Houston green and energy efficient, but we need the help of every citizen," said Houston Mayor Annise D. Parker. "I would encourage everyone to take a moment to explore the TexasIsHot website to learn what we can all do to make Houston, and the rest of Texas, the green and energy efficient example for the rest of the nation."