EXHIBIT 23

                         CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

HOUSTON LIGHTING & POWER COMPANY:

        We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statements
on Form S-3 Nos. 33-46368 and 33-54228 and in Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to
Registration Statement No. 33-51417 on Form S-3 of our report dated February 23,
1995 appearing in this Form 8-K of Houston Lighting & Power Company dated May
12, 1995.

DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

HOUSTON, TEXAS
MAY 12, 1995