Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (TX-26) was joined today by Texas Railroad Commissioner Michael L. Williams, local and state officials, and industry experts for a summit and fair on energy efficiency and conservation. This 3rd Annual event, hosted by Congressman Burgess, offered North Texans information on how to become more energy efficient and save on their personal energy costs, as well as programs and products available that relate to energy efficiency and conservation. Information was also presented on how recent federal policies may impact Texas.

The event featured two panels of experts from local, state, and federal levels, as well as area organizations and businesses, who offered information ranging from building a “Green Home” and updating current homes with energy saving products, to the state’s leading usage of wind energy and other alternative sources. Congressman Burgess is no stranger to energy efficiency, having incorporated many of the ideas in his own home built in recent years.

“We must all do our part to become more energy efficient and strive for an energy independent America,” Congressman Burgess said. “There are many things we can do to use less energy and use energy more wisely. By taking just a few steps as a humble North Texan, I have used far less energy than I used to, and I would encourage others to do so as well.”

Texas Railroad Commissioner Michael Williams offered the keynote address, speaking about energy resources and policy in Texas. The Texas Railroad Commission has primary regulatory jurisdiction over many of the state’s energy industries, including oil and natural gas industry.  The Commission is also responsible for research and education to promote the use of alternative fuels.

“Meeting our growing energy needs of tomorrow requires us to conserve more, use less and develop alternatives today.  We can have a healthy economy and a healthy environment with pro-growth energy policies that encourage innovation and reward entrepreneurship,” said Commissioner Williams, the longest-serving member of the state’s energy regulatory commission.

Officials were also on-hand from the Public Utility Commission and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT).

Attendees benefited from an energy efficiency fair featuring exhibits from area organizations and businesses. Products highlighted included energy efficient appliances, residential solar panels and wind turbines.

“I know we all agree that we should learn as much as possible about finding new ways to improve our energy efficiency. I appreciate Congressman Burgess hosting this summit which I believe will educate us on the excellent tools available,” said Mayor Dean Ueckert of Lewisville.

“In these tough economic times, I think it’s important to find ways we can cut back at home, and I am hopeful North Texans learned new ways to do that today. I wanted to highlight the importance of individuals taking responsibility and doing things to reduce their energy use,” Congressman Burgess said.


Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D., is a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and three of its subcommittees: Health, Energy & Environment, and Oversight & Investigations.  He is also a member of the bipartisan, bicameral Joint Economic Committee.  Prior to becoming a member of Congress in 2002, Congressman Burgess practiced medicine in North Texas for over 25 years.