There is an article in the Austin American Statesman called, "Listen to locals' issues with energy" by Bill Hammond, that exposes the Austin energy crisis.   http://www.statesman.com/opinion/listen-to-locals-issues-with-energy-2176074.html   Hammond, current president and chief executive officer of Texas Association of Business, leads the state's most influential business and chamber organization.  He clearly provides detailed mishaps of the City of Austin's energy provider, Austin Energy, desperate attempts to go "green".  In return, all Austin Energy has accomplished is increasing our taxes, adding millions to our city's budget, and raising rates for individual homes.  With the mention of taxes, the author brings to light that the people on the outskirts of Austin are being taxed on services from Austin Energy that they don't even provide.   Mr. Hammond states that there are ways to reverse the unfair damage caused by our local government in allowing this to continue.  The City of Austin should trust us to do our part in taking some personal responsibility for helping the "green" movement.  I agree with Mr. Hammond is saying that the City of Austin should be holding themselves and ourselves more accountable.  We should not be monopolized by Austin Energy, but instead follow the trend of other cities that have actually reduced costs of energy instead of jacking it up.