Report: Use of water, energy linked

AUSTIN (AP) - A joint report from the University of Texas and an environmental group urges state planners to conserve both water and energy.

The report released Monday claims that improving water conservation will cut power demand and that upgrades in energy efficiency will decrease water needs, allowing Texas to utilize "finite supplies of both" and cut consumers' costs. One recommendation in the report, which the Environmental Defense Fund helped prepare, requires studies to determine how much water is available for use at new fossil-fueled or concentrated solar power plants.

A bill before legislators pertaining to the recommendation is scheduled for a public hearing Wednesday in Austin.