Alternative Energy Industry Guide

As the Energy Capital of the World, Houston uses its spirit of innovation and collaboration to forge new ground across all aspects of the energy sector.

Extensive research and development is underway on developing energy sources that are not based on the burning of fossil fuels or the splitting of atoms. These include geothermal, wind, tide, solar, ground source heat pumps, biofuels hydroelectric and hydrogen fuel cells. The Partnership is working with area organizations to develop and demonstrate advanced hydrogen and fuel cell technologies that will reduce our nation’s dependency on oil, improve air quality and maintain the region’s economic competitiveness.

Houston has the tools and infrastructure in place to capitalize on this emerging sector of the energy industry.

Industry Facts:

  • Texas is one of the top three states in the country in wind power potential
  • In 2003, Texas installed more wind power than the entire United States had in any other year
  • Many of Houston’s school crossing lights are powered by solar energy

Green Mountain Energy Case Study

Green Mountain Energy is one of 11 electric retailers from whom Houstonians can purchase their electric power. Much of Green Mountain Energy’s source for electricity is wind power.

The Green Mountain Energy Wind Farm in Borden and Scurry counties in West Texas produces enough electricity to power 30,000 homes.

Alternative Energy Downloadable Fact Sheet

Who's Who in Houston Alternative Energy:

Alternative Energy Resources:

  • Business Development Division of the Greater Houston Partnership
  • Houston Advanced Research Center
  • Houston Energy Collaborative
  • Houston Technology Center

Alternative Energy Events:

  • The Offshore Technology Conference held yearly in Houston presents the latest exploration and development technology in the energy industry to more than 50,000 attendees