1

                 UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                            WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
                                   FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

[ X ]  QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
       EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED MARCH 31, 1996

                                       OR

[   ]  TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
       EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from ______________ to _______________

                         ______________________________

Commission file number 1-7629

                        HOUSTON INDUSTRIES INCORPORATED
             (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

               Texas                                  74-1885573 
 (State or other jurisdiction of           (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
 incorporation or organization)


           1111 Louisiana                                      
           Houston, Texas                                 77002
(Address of principal executive offices)                (Zip Code)
                    

                               (713) 207-3000
              (Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

                         ______________________________


Commission file number 1-3187

                        HOUSTON LIGHTING & POWER COMPANY
             (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

               Texas                                    74-0694415 
 (State or other jurisdiction of           (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
  incorporation or organization)

           1111 Louisiana                                      
           Houston, Texas                                 77002
(Address of principal executive offices)                (Zip Code)

                                 (713) 207-1111
              (Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

                         ______________________________


Indicate by check mark whether the registrants (1) have filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrants were required to file such reports), and (2) have been subject to
such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes  X     No  
                                                    ---       ---

As of April 30, 1996, Houston Industries Incorporated had 262,742,947 shares of
common stock outstanding, including 14,042,052 ESOP shares not deemed
outstanding for financial statement purposes.  As of April 30, 1996, all 1,100
shares of Houston Lighting & Power Company's common stock were held, directly or
indirectly, by Houston Industries Incorporated.







   2
             HOUSTON INDUSTRIES INCORPORATED AND HOUSTON LIGHTING
                & POWER COMPANY QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q
                     FOR THE QUARTER ENDED MARCH 31, 1996

This combined Form 10-Q is separately filed by Houston Industries Incorporated
and Houston Lighting & Power Company.  Information contained herein relating to
Houston Lighting & Power Company is filed by Houston Industries Incorporated
and separately by Houston Lighting & Power Company on its own behalf.  Houston
Lighting & Power Company makes no representation as to information relating to
Houston Industries Incorporated (except as it may relate to Houston Lighting &
Power Company) or to any other affiliate or subsidiary of Houston Industries
Incorporated.

                               TABLE OF CONTENTS



Part I.          Financial Information                                                        Page No.
- ------           ---------------------                                                        --------
                                                                                        
                                                                                              
                 Item 1.      Financial Statements                                            
                                                                                              
                 Houston Industries Incorporated and Subsidiaries                             
                                                                                              
                       Statements of Consolidated Income                                      
                       Three Months Ended March 31, 1996 and 1995                                  3
                                                                                              
                       Consolidated Balance Sheets                                            
                       March 31, 1996 and December 31, 1995                                        4
                                                                                              
                       Statements of Consolidated Cash Flows                                  
                       Three Months Ended March 31, 1996 and 1995                                  6
                                                                                              
                       Statements of Consolidated Retained Earnings                           
                       Three Months Ended March 31, 1996 and 1995                                  7
                                                                                              
                       Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements                                 13
                                                                                              
                 Houston Lighting & Power Company                                             
                                                                                              
                       Statements of Income                                                   
                       Three Months Ended March 31, 1996 and 1995                                  8
                                                                                              
                       Balance Sheets                                                         
                       March 31, 1996 and December 31, 1995                                        9
                                                                                              
                       Statements of Cash Flows                                               
                       Three Months Ended March 31, 1996 and 1995                                 11
                                                                                              
                       Statements of Retained Earnings                                        
                       Three Months Ended March 31, 1996 and 1995                                 12
                                                                                              
                       Notes to Financial Statements                                              13
                                                                                              
                 Item 2.      Management's Discussion and Analysis                            
                              of Financial Condition and Results of                           
                              Operations                                                          16
                                                                                              
Part II.         Other Information                                                            
- -------          -----------------                                                            
                                                                                              
                 Item 1.      Legal Proceedings                                                   20
                                                                                              
                 Item 6.      Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K                                    20
                                                                                              
                 Signatures                                                                   





                                     -2-
   3
                         PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.

                HOUSTON INDUSTRIES INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES
                       STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED INCOME
                             (THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS)



                                                                                 Three Months Ended
                                                                                      March 31,       
                                                                              ---------------------------
                                                                                 1996            1995    
                                                                              ----------       ----------
                                                                                                 
REVENUES:
  Electric utility  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     $  811,965       $  746,166
  Other   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         12,456            9,072
                                                                              ----------       ----------
          Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        824,421          755,238
                                                                              ----------       ----------
EXPENSES:
  Electric utility:
      Fuel  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        197,622          183,602
      Purchased power   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         78,179           65,588
      Operation and maintenance   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        193,448          198,529
      Taxes other than income taxes   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         62,565           70,950
  Depreciation and amortization   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        129,347          104,196
  Other operating expenses  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         25,793           17,220   
                                                                              ----------       ----------        
          Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        686,954          640,085
                                                                              ----------       ----------
OPERATING INCOME  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        137,467          115,153
                                                                              ----------       ----------
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):
  Litigation settlements  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        (95,000)
  Allowance for other funds used during
      construction  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .          1,131            2,629
  Time Warner dividend income   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         10,403
  Interest income   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            692              537
  Other - net   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         (2,427)          (2,648)
                                                                              ----------       ---------- 
          Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        (85,201)             518
                                                                              ----------       ----------
INTEREST AND OTHER CHARGES:
  Interest on long-term debt  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         71,395           65,216
  Other interest  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .          1,574            8,999
  Allowance for borrowed funds used during
      construction  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           (685)          (1,805)
  Preferred dividends of subsidiary   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .          6,632            8,985
                                                                              ----------       ----------
          Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         78,916           81,395
                                                                              ----------       ----------
INCOME (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS
  BEFORE INCOME TAXES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        (26,650)          34,276

INCOME TAXES  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         (9,910)          10,427
                                                                              ----------       ----------

INCOME (LOSS) FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        (16,740)          23,849

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (NET OF INCOME TAXES)-
  Gain on sale of cable television subsidiary   . . . . . . . . . . . . .                          90,607
                                                                              ----------       ----------

NET INCOME (LOSS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     $  (16,740)      $  114,456
                                                                              ==========       ==========
EARNINGS (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE:

  CONTINUING OPERATIONS   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     $     (.07)      $      .09

  DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS-
      Gain on sale of cable television subsidiary   . . . . . . . . . . .                             .37
                                                                              ----------       ----------

  EARNINGS (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     $     (.07)      $      .46
                                                                              ==========       ==========

  DIVIDENDS DECLARED PER COMMON SHARE   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     $     .375       $     .375

  WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING (000)  . . . . . . . . . . .        248,466          247,197


                See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


                                                                -3-
   4
                HOUSTON INDUSTRIES INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES
                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
                             (THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS)

                                     ASSETS






                                                                                    March 31,            December 31,
                                                                                      1996                   1995    
                                                                                  -------------          -------------
                                                                                                   
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT - AT COST:
   Electric plant:
      Plant in service  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     $  12,186,407          $  12,089,490
      Construction work in progress   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           279,960                320,040
      Nuclear fuel  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           223,952                217,604
      Plant held for future use   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            48,631                 48,631
   Other property   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           111,022                105,624
                                                                                  -------------          -------------
            Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        12,849,972             12,781,389

   Less accumulated depreciation and amortization   . . . . . . . . . . . . .         4,020,267              3,916,540
                                                                                  -------------          -------------

            Property, plant and equipment - net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         8,829,705              8,864,849
                                                                                  -------------          -------------

CURRENT ASSETS:
   Cash and cash equivalents  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .             6,332                 11,779
   Special deposits   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .               443                    433
   Accounts receivable - net  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            30,767                 39,635
   Accrued unbilled revenues  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            39,088                 59,017
   Time Warner dividends receivable   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            10,313                 10,313
   Fuel stock   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            60,505                 59,699
   Materials and supplies, at average cost  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           136,441                138,007
   Prepayments  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .             7,769                 18,562
                                                                                  -------------          -------------
            Total current assets  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           291,658                337,445
                                                                                  -------------          -------------

OTHER ASSETS:
   Investment in Time Warner securities   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         1,030,875              1,027,875
   Deferred plant costs - net   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           606,689                613,134
   Deferred debits  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           311,597                317,215
   Unamortized debt expense and premium on
      reacquired debt   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           159,835                161,788
   Regulatory tax asset - net   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           225,285                228,587
   Recoverable project costs - net  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           222,520                232,775
   Equity investments in and advances to foreign and
      non-regulated affiliates - net  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            35,671                 35,938
                                                                                  -------------          -------------

            Total other assets  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         2,592,472              2,617,312
                                                                                  -------------          -------------

               Total  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     $  11,713,835          $  11,819,606
                                                                                  =============          =============



                See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.





                                      -4-
   5
                HOUSTON INDUSTRIES INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES
                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
                             (THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS)

                         CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES



                                                                                       March 31,         December 31,
                                                                                         1996                1995    
                                                                                     -------------       ------------
                                                                                                   
CAPITALIZATION:
   Common Stock Equity:
      Common stock, no par value  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    $ 2,444,304         $ 2,441,790
      Unearned ESOP shares  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (264,318)           (268,405)
      Retained earnings   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      1,843,723           1,953,672
      Unrealized loss on investment in Time Warner
          common securities - net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         (1,544)             (3,494)
                                                                                     -----------         -----------
             Total common stock equity  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      4,022,165           4,123,563
                                                                                     -----------         -----------
   Preference Stock, no par value, authorized
      10,000,000 shares; none outstanding

   Cumulative Preferred Stock of Subsidiary, no par
      value:
          Not subject to mandatory redemption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        351,345             351,345
          Subject to mandatory redemption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         51,055              51,055
                                                                                     -----------         -----------
             Total cumulative preferred stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        402,400             402,400
                                                                                     -----------         -----------
   Long-Term Debt:
      Debentures  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        348,960             348,913
      Long-term debt of subsidiaries:
          First mortgage bonds  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      2,704,462           2,979,293
          Pollution control revenue bonds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .          4,434               4,426
          Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .          4,796               5,790
                                                                                     -----------         -----------
             Total long-term debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      3,062,652           3,338,422
                                                                                     -----------         -----------
                 Total capitalization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      7,487,217           7,864,385
                                                                                     -----------         -----------
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
   Notes payable  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        292,728               6,300
   Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        146,086             136,008
   Taxes accrued  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         57,255             174,925
   Interest accrued . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         84,434              79,380
   Dividends declared . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         98,502              98,502
   Accrued liabilities to municipalities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         19,291              20,773
   Customer deposits  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         61,381              61,582
   Current portion of long-term debt and preferred
      stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        459,454             379,451
   Other  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         49,334              58,664
                                                                                     -----------         -----------
                 Total current liabilities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      1,268,465           1,015,585
                                                                                     -----------         -----------
DEFERRED CREDITS:
   Accumulated deferred income taxes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      2,059,522           2,067,246
   Unamortized investment tax credit  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        387,289             392,153
   Fuel-related credits   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        106,061             122,063
   Other  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        405,281             358,174
                                                                                     -----------         -----------
                 Total deferred credits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      2,958,153           2,939,636
                                                                                     -----------         -----------
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

                     Total  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    $11,713,835         $11,819,606
                                                                                     ===========         ===========





                See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


                                    -5-
   6
                HOUSTON INDUSTRIES INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES
                     STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS

                INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
                             (THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS)



                                                                                             Three Months Ended
                                                                                                  March 31,        
                                                                                         -----------------------------
                                                                                            1996               1995   
                                                                                         ----------         ----------
                                                                                                      
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
    Income (loss) from continuing operations  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    $  (16,740)        $   23,849

    Adjustments to reconcile income (loss) from continuing
           operations to net cash provided by operating
           activities:
       Depreciation and amortization  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       129,347            104,196
       Amortization of nuclear fuel   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         7,595              6,557
       Deferred income taxes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        (8,774)             6,347
       Investment tax credit  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        (4,864)            (4,858)
       Allowance for other funds used during
           construction   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        (1,131)            (2,629)
       Fuel cost (refund) and over/(under) recovery - net   . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (11,112)            48,136
       Net cash used in discontinued cable television
           operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .                           (3,682)
       Changes in other assets and liabilities:
           Accounts receivable and accrued unbilled revenues  . . . . . . . . . . . .        28,797            (12,488)
           Inventory  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           760             (8,904)
           Other current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        10,783              6,961
           Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        10,078            (71,202)
           Interest and taxes accrued . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      (112,616)           (83,195)
           Other current liabilities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (11,013)             2,382
           Other - net  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        58,828             29,827
                                                                                         ----------         ----------
               Net cash provided by operating activities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        79,938             41,297
                                                                                         ----------         ----------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
    Electric capital and nuclear fuel expenditures
       (including allowance for borrowed funds
       used during construction)  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (70,141)           (55,915)
    Non-regulated electric power project
      expenditures and advances   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        (8,809)           (11,699)
    Corporate headquarters expenditures (including
       capitalized interest)  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        (5,598)           (25,945)
    Net cash used in discontinued cable television
       operations   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .                          (17,406)
    Other - net   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        (1,794)            (2,956)
                                                                                         ----------         ---------- 
               Net cash used in investing activities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (86,342)          (113,921)
                                                                                         ----------         ---------- 
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
    Payment of matured bonds  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      (110,000)
    Payment of common stock dividends   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (93,209)           (92,722)
    Increase in notes payable - net   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       286,428            210,864
    Net cash used in discontinued cable television
       operations   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .                          (40,798)
    Extinguishment of long-term debt  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (85,263)
    Other - net   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         3,001              2,004
                                                                                         ----------         ----------
               Net cash provided by financing activities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           957             79,348
                                                                                         ----------         ----------

NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        (5,447)             6,724

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        11,779             10,443
                                                                                         ----------         ----------

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    $    6,332         $   17,167
                                                                                         ==========         ==========

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
- ------------------------------------------------ 

    Cash Payments:
       Interest (net of amounts capitalized)  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    $   61,385         $   84,349
       Income taxes   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        18,365              1,424
       Income tax refund  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .                           (1,909)


                See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.



                                             -6-
   7
                HOUSTON INDUSTRIES INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES
                  STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED RETAINED EARNINGS
                             (THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS)




                                                                                Three Months Ended
                                                                                     March 31,        
                                                                          -------------------------------
                                                                              1996                1995   
                                                                          -----------         -----------



                                                                                        
Balance at Beginning of Period  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   $ 1,953,672         $ 1,221,221

Net Income (Loss) for the Period  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (16,740)            114,456
                                                                          -----------         -----------

         Total  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     1,936,932           1,335,677

Common Stock Dividends  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (93,209)            (92,752)
                                                                          -----------         ----------- 

Balance at End of Period  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   $ 1,843,723         $ 1,242,925
                                                                          ===========         ===========



                See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.





                                     -7-
   8
                        HOUSTON LIGHTING & POWER COMPANY
                              STATEMENTS OF INCOME
                             (THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS)




                                                                  
                                                                                  Three Months Ended
                                                                                        March 31,      
                                                                               ---------------------------
                                                                                  1996             1995   
                                                                               ----------       ----------
                                                                                                     
OPERATING REVENUES  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    $  811,965       $  746,166
                                                                               ----------       ----------

OPERATING EXPENSES:
    Fuel      . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       197,622          183,602
    Purchased power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        78,179           65,588
    Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       139,772          141,320
    Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        53,676           57,209
    Depreciation and amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       128,434          103,913
    Income taxes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        32,063           19,018
    Other taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        62,565           70,950
                                                                               ----------       ----------
           Total  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       692,311          641,600
                                                                               ----------       ----------

OPERATING INCOME  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       119,654          104,566
                                                                               ----------       ----------

OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):
    Litigation settlements (net of income taxes
        of $33,250)   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (61,750)
    Allowance for other funds used during
        construction  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         1,131            2,629
    Other - net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        (3,360)          (1,453)
                                                                               ----------       ---------- 
           Total  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (63,979)           1,176
                                                                               ----------       ----------

INCOME BEFORE INTEREST CHARGES  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        55,675          105,742
                                                                               ----------       ----------

INTEREST CHARGES:
    Interest on long-term debt  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        57,504           61,518
    Other interest  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         2,411            3,135     
    Allowance for borrowed funds used during
        construction  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .          (685)          (1,805)       
                                                                               ----------       ----------  
           Total  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        59,230           62,848
                                                                               ----------       ----------  

NET INCOME (LOSS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        (3,555)          42,894

DIVIDENDS ON PREFERRED STOCK  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         6,632            8,985
                                                                               ----------       ----------

INCOME (LOSS) AFTER PREFERRED DIVIDENDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    $  (10,187)      $   33,909
                                                                               ==========       ==========



                       See Notes to Financial Statements.





                                                                -8-
   9
                        HOUSTON LIGHTING & POWER COMPANY
                                 BALANCE SHEETS
                             (THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS)

                                     ASSETS



                                                                                    March 31,            December 31,
                                                                                      1996                   1995    
                                                                                  -------------          -------------
                                                                                                   
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT - AT COST:
   Electric plant in service  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     $  12,186,407          $  12,089,490
   Construction work in progress  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           279,960                320,040
   Nuclear fuel   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           223,952                217,604
   Plant held for future use  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            48,631                 48,631
                                                                                   ------------          -------------
          Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        12,738,950             12,675,765

   Less accumulated depreciation and
      amortization  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         4,013,418              3,906,139
                                                                                  -------------          -------------

          Property, plant and equipment - net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         8,725,532              8,769,626
                                                                                  -------------          -------------

CURRENT ASSETS:
   Cash and cash equivalents  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .             2,076                 75,851
   Special deposits   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .               443                    433
   Accounts receivable:
      Affiliated companies  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .             2,997                  2,845
      Others  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            14,897                 23,858
   Accrued unbilled revenues  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            39,088                 59,017
   Inventory:
      Fuel stock  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            60,505                 59,699
      Materials and supplies, at average cost   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           135,723                137,584
   Prepayments  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .             3,003                 11,876
                                                                                  -------------          -------------
          Total current assets  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           258,732                371,163
                                                                                  -------------          -------------

OTHER ASSETS:
   Deferred plant costs - net   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           606,689                613,134
   Deferred debits  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           283,979                290,012
   Unamortized debt expense and premium on
      reacquired debt   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           158,147                159,962
   Regulatory tax asset - net   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           225,285                228,587
   Recoverable project costs - net  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           222,520                232,775
                                                                                  -------------          -------------
          Total other assets  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         1,496,620              1,524,470
                                                                                  -------------          -------------

             Total  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     $  10,480,884          $  10,665,259
                                                                                  =============          =============



                       See Notes to Financial Statements.





                                      -9-
   10
                        HOUSTON LIGHTING & POWER COMPANY
                                 BALANCE SHEETS
                             (THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS)

                         CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES



                                                                                       March 31,            December 31,
                                                                                         1996                   1995    
                                                                                     -------------          ------------
                                                                                                      
CAPITALIZATION:
   Common Stock Equity:
      Common stock, class A; no par value   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    $   1,524,949          $  1,524,949
      Common stock, class B; no par value   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .          150,978               150,978
      Retained earnings   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        2,057,649             2,150,086
                                                                                     -------------          ------------
          Total common stock equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        3,733,576             3,826,013 
                                                                                     -------------          ------------
   Cumulative Preferred Stock:
      Not subject to mandatory redemption   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .          351,345               351,345
      Subject to mandatory redemption   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           51,055                51,055
                                                                                     -------------          ------------
          Total cumulative preferred stock  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .          402,400               402,400   
                                                                                     -------------          ------------
   Long-Term Debt:
      First mortgage bonds  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        2,704,462             2,979,293
      Pollution control revenue bonds   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            4,434                 4,426
      Other   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            4,796                 5,790
                                                                                     -------------          ------------
          Total long-term debt  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        2,713,692             2,989,509
                                                                                     -------------          ------------
             Total capitalization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        6,849,668             7,217,922
                                                                                     -------------          ------------

CURRENT LIABILITIES:
   Notes payable  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .          203,648
   Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .          138,844               119,032
   Accounts payable to affiliated companies   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .            3,630                 6,982
   Taxes accrued  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           74,403               192,673
   Interest accrued . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           66,719                70,823
   Accrued liabilities to municipalities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           19,291                20,773
   Customer deposits  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           61,381                61,582
   Current portion of long-term debt and preferred
      stock   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .          259,454               179,451
   Other  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .           44,115                54,149
                                                                                     -------------          ------------
             Total current liabilities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .          871,485               705,465
                                                                                     -------------          ------------

DEFERRED CREDITS:
   Accumulated deferred federal income taxes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        1,942,180             1,947,488
   Unamortized investment tax credit  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .          387,289               392,153
   Fuel-related credits   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .          106,061               122,063
   Other  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .          324,201               280,168
                                                                                     -------------          ------------
             Total deferred credits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        2,759,731             2,741,872
                                                                                     -------------          ------------

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

                Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    $  10,480,884          $ 10,665,259
                                                                                     =============          ============





                                       See Notes to Financial Statements.



                                                      -10-
   11
                        HOUSTON LIGHTING & POWER COMPANY
                            STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

                INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
                             (THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS)




                                                                                         Three Months Ended
                                                                                              March 31,          
                                                                                   -------------------------------
                                                                                       1996                1995    
                                                                                   ------------         ----------
                                                                                                  
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
    Net income (loss)   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    $   (3,555)          $   42,894

    Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to
           net cash provided by operating activities:
       Depreciation and amortization  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       128,434              103,913
       Amortization of nuclear fuel   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         7,595                6,557
       Deferred income taxes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        (5,309)               7,234
       Investment tax credits   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        (4,864)              (4,858)
       Allowance for other funds used during
           construction   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        (1,131)              (2,629)
       Fuel cost (refund) and over/(under) recovery
           - net  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (11,112)              48,136
       Changes in other assets and liabilities:
           Accounts receivable - net  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        28,738                 (638)
           Material and supplies  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         1,861                 (841)
           Fuel stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .          (806)              (8,026)
           Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        16,460              (81,091)
           Interest and taxes accrued . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      (122,376)             (89,018)
           Other current liabilities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (11,425)                (261)
           Other - net  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        54,736               27,180
                                                                                   ----------           ----------
               Net cash provided by operating activities  . . . . . . . . . . .        77,246               48,552
                                                                                   ----------           ----------

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
    Capital and nuclear fuel expenditures
       (including allowance for borrowed funds
       used during construction)  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (70,141)             (55,915)
    Other - net   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        (2,233)              (2,525)
                                                                                   ----------           ---------- 
               Net cash used in investing activities  . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (72,374)             (58,440)
                                                                                   ----------           ---------- 

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
    Payment of matured bonds  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      (110,000)
    Payment of dividends  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (89,175)             (91,461)
    Increase in notes payable   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       203,648
    Extinguishment of long-term debt  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (85,263)
    Other - net   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         2,143                1,866
                                                                                   ----------           ----------
               Net cash used in financing activities  . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (78,647)             (89,595)
                                                                                   ----------           ---------- 

NET DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (73,775)             (99,483)

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        75,851              235,867
                                                                                   ----------           ----------

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    $    2,076           $  136,384
                                                                                   ==========           ==========

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
- ------------------------------------------------ 

    Cash Payments:
       Interest (net of amounts capitalized)  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    $   56,393           $   57,915
       Income taxes   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        22,892                1,176



                       See Notes to Financial Statements.





                                     -11-
   12
                        HOUSTON LIGHTING & POWER COMPANY
                        STATEMENTS OF RETAINED EARNINGS
                             (THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS)




                                                                                Three Months Ended
                                                                                     March 31,        
                                                                          --------------------------------
                                                                              1996                 1995   
                                                                          -----------          -----------
                                                                                         
Balance at Beginning of Period  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   $ 2,150,086          $ 2,153,109

Net Income (Loss) for the Period  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        (3,555)              42,894
                                                                          -----------          -----------

         Total  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     2,146,531            2,196,003
                                                                          -----------          -----------

Deduct - Cash Dividends:

    Preferred   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .         6,632                8,985

    Common  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        82,250               82,250
                                                                          -----------          -----------

         Total  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        88,882               91,235
                                                                          -----------          -----------

Balance at End of Period  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   $ 2,057,649          $ 2,104,768
                                                                          ===========          ===========



                       See Notes to Financial Statements.





                                     -12-
   13
                HOUSTON INDUSTRIES INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES

                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

                                      AND

                        HOUSTON LIGHTING & POWER COMPANY

                         NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


 (1)           GENERAL

               The interim financial statements and notes (Interim Financial
               Statements) contained in this Form 10-Q for the period ended
               March 31, 1996 (Form 10-Q) are unaudited and condensed.  Certain
               notes and other information contained in the Combined Annual
               Report on Form 10-K (File Nos. 1-7629 and 1-3187) for the year
               ended December 31, 1995 (Form 10-K), of Houston Industries
               Incorporated (Company) and Houston Lighting & Power Company
               (HL&P) have been omitted in accordance with Rule 10-01 of
               Regulation S-X under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.  The
               information presented in the Interim Financial Statements should
               be read in combination with the information presented in the
               Form 10-K, including the financial statements and notes
               contained therein.  For information regarding the Company's
               discontinued cable television operations, see Note 13 to the
               financial statements contained in the Form 10-K.

(2)            CERTAIN CONTINGENCIES

               The following notes to the financial statements of the Form 10-K
               (as updated by the notes contained in this Form 10-Q) are
               incorporated herein by reference:  Note 1(b) (System of Accounts
               and Effects of Regulation), Note 2 (Jointly-Owned Nuclear
               Plant), Note 3 (Rate Matters), Note 4 (Investments in Foreign
               and Non-Regulated Entities) and Note 11 (Commitments and
               Contingencies).

(3)            JOINTLY-OWNED NUCLEAR PLANT

               HL&P is the project manager (and one of four co-owners) of the
               South Texas Project Electric Generating Station (South Texas
               Project), which consists of two 1,250 megawatt nuclear
               generating units.  HL&P has a 30.8 percent interest in the
               project.

               On April 30, 1996, HL&P and the City of Austin (Austin), one of
               the four co-owners of the South Texas Project, agreed to settle
               a lawsuit in which Austin had alleged that outages occurring at
               the South Texas Project between early 1993 and early 1994 were
               due to HL&P's failure to perform certain obligations it owed
               Austin under a Participation Agreement relating to the project.
               For information regarding this settlement and a $13 million
               (after-tax) charge to first quarter earnings resulting from the
               settlement, see Note 7(a) to the Interim Financial Statements.

               For information concerning a similar lawsuit filed against HL&P
               by the City of San Antonio (San Antonio), another co-owner of
               the South Texas Project, and San Antonio's pending arbitration
               claims against HL&P with respect to the construction of the
               South Texas Project, see Note 2(b) to the financial statements
               contained in the Form 10-K.  HL&P and San Antonio (acting
               through the City Public Service Board of San Antonio (CPS)) have
               agreed on the principles under which they would settle all 
               claims with respect to the South Texas Project. For information 
               regarding the proposed settlement and a $49 million (after-tax)
               charge to first quarter earnings relating thereto, see Note 7(a)
               to the Interim Financial Statements.




                                     -13-
   14
         (4)   RATE CASE PROCEEDINGS

               For information concerning the settlement of HL&P's most recent
               rate case (Docket No. 12065) and the continuing impact of that
               settlement on HL&P's results of operations, see Note 3(a) to the
               financial statements contained in the Form 10-K.  The two Public
               Utility Commission of Texas (Utility Commission) orders
               concerning HL&P that are still subject to appellate review are:
               Docket No. 8425 (HL&P's 1988 rate case) and Docket No. 6668 (an
               inquiry into the prudence of the planning and construction of
               the South Texas Project).  For information regarding these
               appeals, see Note 3(b) to the financial statements contained in
               the Form 10-K.

(5)            CAPITAL STOCK

               Company.  At March 31, 1996 and December 31, 1995, the Company
               had 400,000,000 authorized shares of common stock, of which
               248,556,370 and 248,316,710 shares, respectively, were
               outstanding as of such dates.  Outstanding shares exclude the
               unallocated shares of the Company's Employee Stock Ownership
               Plan, which as of March 31, 1996 and December 31, 1995 totaled
               14,186,577 and 14,355,758, respectively.  Earnings per common
               share for the Company are computed by dividing net income by the
               weighted average number of shares outstanding during the
               respective period.

               HL&P.  All issued and outstanding shares of Class A voting
               common stock of HL&P are held by the Company, and all issued and
               outstanding shares of Class B non-voting common stock of HL&P
               are held by Houston Industries (Delaware) Incorporated (HI
               Delaware), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.  Earnings
               per share data for HL&P are not computed because all of its
               common stock is held by the Company and HI Delaware.

               On March 31, 1996 and December 31, 1995, HL&P had 10,000,000
               authorized shares of preferred stock, of which 4,318,397 shares
               were outstanding.

(6)            LONG-TERM DEBT

               HL&P.  In January 1996, HL&P repaid upon maturity $100 million
               principal amount of its Collateralized Medium-Term Notes Series
               B and $10 million principal amount of its Collateralized
               Medium-Term Notes Series A plus accrued interest on the two 
               issues.

               In March 1996, HL&P deposited approximately $86 million in a
               trust and irrevocably directed the trustee to redeem on May 8,
               1996 all issued and outstanding principal amounts of HL&P's 
               7 1/4% first mortgage bonds due February 1, 2001 (at a redemption
               price of 100.42% plus accrued interest) and 6 3/4% first
               mortgage bonds due April 1, 1998 (at a redemption price of
               100.15% plus accrued interest).

(7)            SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

               (a)   South Texas Project Litigation.  On April 30, 1996,
                     Houston Lighting & Power Company entered into a settlement
                     with Austin regarding City of Austin v. Houston Lighting &
                     Power Company, Cause No. 94-07946, in the 11th Judicial
                     District Court, Harris County, Texas.  In that suit, filed
                     by Austin in May 1994, Austin asserted that HL&P had
                     mismanaged its responsibilities as Project Manager of the
                     South Texas Project.  Austin contended that, because of
                     HL&P's mismanagement and negligence, the outage at the
                     South Texas Project during 1993-94 had caused Austin
                     damages of approximately $120 million.

                     Trial of Austin's suit began in March 1996, and the
                     settlement was reached in April 1996.  Under the
                     settlement, HL&P agreed to pay Austin $20 million in cash
                     to resolve all pending disputes between HL&P and Austin,
                     and Austin agreed to





                                     -14-
   15
                     support the formation of a new operating company to
                     assume HL&P's role as project manager for the South Texas
                     Project.  The Company and HL&P have recorded the $20
                     million ($13 million net of tax) payment to Austin on the
                     Company's Statements of Consolidated Income and HL&P's
                     Statements of Income as litigation settlements expense.
        
                     HL&P and CPS have agreed on the principles under which they
                     would settle all claims with respect to the South Texas
                     Project. Under the proposed settlement, HL&P and CPS would
                     enter into definitive agreements providing, among other
                     things, for (i) a cash payment by HL&P to CPS of $75
                     million ($25 million of which has already been paid), (ii)
                     an agreement to support formation of a new operating
                     company to replace HL&P as project manager of the South
                     Texas Project and (iii) the execution of a 10-year joint
                     operations agreement under which HL&P and CPS will share
                     savings resulting from the joint dispatching of their
                     respective generating assets in order to take advantage of
                     each system's lower cost resources. Under the terms of the
                     joint operations agreement, CPS will be guaranteed minimum
                     annual savings of $10 million with a minimum cumulative
                     savings of $150 million over the ten year term of the
                     agreement. Based on current forecasts and other assumptions
                     regarding the combined operation of the two generating
                     systems, HL&P anticipates that the savings resulting from
                     joint operations will equal or exceed the minimum savings
                     guaranteed under the joint operations agreement.

                     Although no assurance can be given as to the ultimate
                     resolution of negotiations, the proposed settlement will
                     resolve all claims, litigation and matters in arbitration
                     between the two parties with respect to the South Texas
                     Project. The proposed settlement has been reviewed by San
                     Antonio's city council but is still subject to approval by
                     CPS. In anticipation of the settlement, the Company and
                     HL&P have recorded a $49 million expense (net of tax) on
                     the Company's Statement of Consolidated Income and HL&P's
                     Statements of Income (reflected as litigation settlement
                     expense). The unpaid portion of the cash payment
                     contemplated by the settlement is shown in other deferred
                     credits on the Company's Consolidated and HL&P's Balance
                     Sheets.

               (b)   HI Energy.  In May 1996, a subsidiary of Houston
                     Industries Energy, Inc. (HI Energy) purchased for
                     approximately $55 million an additional 39 percent of the
                     capital stock of Empresa Distribuidora la Plata (EDELAP),
                     an electric utility company operating in La Plata,
                     Argentina and surrounding regions.  HI Energy also
                     indirectly owns 16.6 percent of the capital stock of
                     EDELAP, which shares were acquired in December 1992 for
                     $37 million.  For additional information regarding HI
                     Energy's investments in foreign and non-regulated
                     entities, see Note 4 to the financial statements contained
                     in the Form 10-K.  Beginning in the second quarter of
                     1996, EDELAP will be reflected in the Company's financial
                     statements on a consolidated basis.

               (c)   Redemption of HL&P Preferred Stock.  In March 1996, HL&P
                     provided notice to the holders of its $9.375 preferred
                     stock that it would redeem 514,000 shares of such stock at
                     a cost of approximately $53 million ($102.34375 per share
                     including accrued dividends).  On April 1, 1996, HL&P
                     redeemed 257,000 of such shares pursuant to a sinking fund
                     requirement and 257,000 shares pursuant to optional
                     redemption provisions.  HL&P will record the redemptions
                     in the second quarter of 1996.

(8)            INTERIM PERIOD RESULTS: RECLASSIFICATIONS

               The results of interim periods are not necessarily indicative of
               results expected for the year due to the seasonal nature of
               HL&P's business.  In the opinion of management, the interim
               information reflects all adjustments (consisting only of normal
               recurring adjustments) necessary for a full presentation of the
               results for the interim periods.  Certain amounts from the
               previous year have been reclassified to conform to the 1996
               presentation of financial statements.  Such reclassifications do
               not affect earnings.




                                     -15-
   16
ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
         RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.

The following discussion and analysis should be read in combination with
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations in Item 7 of the Form 10-K,  the financial statements and notes
contained in Item 8 of the Form 10-K and the Interim Financial Statements.


                             RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

                                    COMPANY

         A summary of selected financial data for the Company and its
subsidiaries is set forth below:



                                                               Three Months Ended 
                                                                  March 31,                         
                                                          ------------------------------       Percent
                                                             1996                 1995         Change
                                                          ----------            --------       -------
                                                               (Thousands of Dollars)
                                                                                        
         Revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      $824,421             $755,238          9
         Operating Expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . .       686,954              640,085          7
         Operating Income . . . . . . . . . . . . . .       137,467              115,153         19
         Other Income (Expense) . . . . . . . . . . .       (85,201)                 518          -
         Interest and Other Charges . . . . . . . . .        78,916               81,395         (3)
         Income Taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .        (9,910)              10,427          -
         Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations . .       (16,740)              23,849          -
         Gain from Discontinued Operations  . . . . .                             90,607          - 
         Net Income (Loss)  . . . . . . . . . . . . .       (16,740)             114,456          -



         The Company had a consolidated loss per share of $.07 for the first
quarter of 1996 compared to consolidated earnings per share of $.46 for the
first quarter of 1995.  The decline in 1996 first quarter earnings was the
result of a $62 million (after-tax) charge incurred in connection with the
settlement of the Austin litigation and the proposed settlement of San Antonio's
claims relating to the South Texas Project.  For information regarding these
matters and their accounting impact on the Company and HL&P, see Note 7(a) to
the Interim Financial Statements. First quarter 1995 earnings included a
one-time after-tax gain of $.37 per share recorded in connection with the sale
of the Company's cable television subsidiary.

         Excluding the $62 million (after-tax) charge to earnings, the
Company's consolidated earnings from continuing operations would have been $.18
per share in the first quarter of 1996 compared to $.09 per share in the first
quarter of 1995. The increase in consolidated earnings from continuing
operations for the first quarter of 1996 is primarily the result of improved
earnings by the Company's principal subsidiary, HL&P.  In addition, first
quarter earnings benefited from after-tax dividend income of approximately $9
million from the Company's investment in Time Warner Inc. securities (acquired
in connection with the Company's sale of its cable television subsidiary).





                                    - 16 -
   17
                                      HL&P


         A summary of selected financial data for HL&P is set forth below:



                                                                      Three Months Ended
                                                                           March 31,                 
                                                                 -----------------------------      Percent
                                                                   1996                 1995        Change
                                                                 --------             --------      -------
                                                                     (Thousands of Dollars)
                                                                                           
                                                                                            
         Base Revenues (1)  . . . . . . . . . . . . .            $552,335             $524,015          5
         Reconcilable Fuel Revenues (2) . . . . . . .             259,630              222,151         17
         Operating Expenses (3) . . . . . . . . . . .             692,311              641,600          8
         Operating Income (3) . . . . . . . . . . . .             119,654              104,566         14
         Other Income (Expense) (3) . . . . . . . . .             (63,979)               1,176          -
         Interest Charges . . . . . . . . . . . . . .              59,230               62,848         (6)
         Income (Loss) After Preferred Dividends. . .             (10,187)              33,909          -
         -----------------                                                                                


         (1)   Includes miscellaneous revenues, certain non-reconcilable fuel
               revenues and certain purchased power related revenues.
         (2)   Includes revenues collected through a fixed fuel factor net of
               adjustment for over/under recovery.  See "Operating Revenues and
               Sales" below.
         (3)   Includes income taxes.

         In the first quarter of 1996, HL&P's income after preferred dividends
declined $44 million  compared to 1995 first quarter income.  The decline in
HL&P's income after preferred dividends was the result of a $62 million
(after-tax) charge to earnings relating to the South Texas Project litigation,
as described above.  For information regarding these matters and their
accounting impact on the Company and HL&P, see Note 7(a) to the Interim
Financial Statements.  Excluding the $62 million charge to earnings, HL&P's
first quarter 1996 income after preferred dividends would have been $52 million
($18 million higher than 1995 first quarter income). This increase resulted
primarily from increased electric sales partially offset by increased
depreciation and amortization expenses related to HL&P's investments in the
South Texas Project and certain lignite reserves.


OPERATING REVENUES AND SALES

         HL&P's first quarter 1996 base revenues benefited from a 16 percent
increase in residential kilowatt-hour (KWH) sales and a 7 percent increase in
commercial KWH sales compared to the first quarter of 1995.  Weather was a
major contributor to the increase in KWH sales.  Other factors contributing to
increased sales were continued customer growth and increased electricity usage
per customer.

         Reconcilable fuel revenues are revenues that are collected through a
fixed fuel factor.  These revenues are adjusted monthly to equal related
expenses; therefore, such revenues and expenses have no effect on earnings
unless such fuel costs are determined not to be recoverable.  For information
regarding the recovery of fuel costs, see "Business of HL&P -- Fuel -- Recovery
of Fuel Costs" in Item 1 of the Form 10-K.

FUEL AND PURCHASED POWER EXPENSES

         HL&P's first quarter fuel expenses increased $14 million compared to
the first quarter of 1995. The increase was due to an increase in the unit cost
of gas.  The average cost of fuel for the first quarter of 1996 was $1.70 per
million British Thermal Units (MMBtu) compared to $1.62 per MMBtu for the same
period in 1995, including an average gas cost of $2.13 per MMBtu and $1.71 per
MMBtu, respectively.   Purchased power expense increased $13 million for the
first quarter of 1996 primarily as a result of increased energy purchases
partially offset by decreased firm capacity costs (reflecting the expiration of
a purchased power contract in 1995).





                                    - 17 -
   18
   OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE, DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION, AND OTHER TAXES

         First quarter operation and maintenance expense decreased $5 million
in comparison to the first quarter of 1995 primarily due to the absence of
refueling activities at the South Texas Project combined with a modest decline
in HL&P's administrative and general operations expense.

         Depreciation and amortization expense increased $25 million during the
first quarter of 1996 compared to the first quarter of 1995. This increase
included HL&P's decision to write down $13 million of its investment in the
South Texas Project as permitted under the settlement of HL&P's most recent
rate case (Docket No. 12065).  Under this settlement, HL&P has the option to
write down up to $50 million ($33 million after-tax) per year of its investment
in the South Texas Project through December 31, 1999.  Additionally, pursuant
to the settlement, HL&P began amortization of its investment in certain lignite
reserves (associated with the now cancelled Malakoff generation project) at a
rate of approximately $22 million per year. This amortization resulted in a $6
million increase in amortization expense during the first quarter of 1996.  For
additional information regarding the settlement and its ongoing effects on
HL&P's results of operations, see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Certain Factors Affecting
Future Earnings of the Company and HL&P - Rate Matters and Other Contingencies"
in Item 7 of the Form 10-K and Note 3(a) to the financial statements contained
in the Form 10-K.  The increase in depreciation and amortization expense also
included $3 million for amortization of HL&P's 1995 early retirement program
and $2 million of increased plant depreciation expense.

         Other taxes decreased $8 million in the first quarter of 1996
primarily because of a decrease in estimated property taxes.


                        LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

                                    COMPANY

GENERAL

         The Company's net cash provided by operating activities for the first
quarter of 1996 totaled $80 million.  Net cash used in the Company's investing
activities for the first quarter of 1996 totaled $86 million, primarily due to
electric capital and nuclear expenditures.  The Company's financing activities
for the first quarter of 1996 resulted in a net cash inflow of $1 million.  The
Company's primary financing activities were payment of matured bonds, payment
of dividends on its common stock and extinguishment of long-term debt funded by
an increase in notes payable in the form of commercial paper.

SOURCES OF CAPITAL RESOURCES AND LIQUIDITY

         In the first quarter of 1996, the Company reduced its borrowing
capacity under its bank credit facilities from $1.1 billion to $750 million
(exclusive of bank credit facilities of subsidiaries).  Borrowings under these
facilities are used to support the Company's commercial paper program.  As of
March 31, 1996, the Company had approximately $87 million of commercial paper
outstanding.

         In May 1996, a subsidiary of HI Energy purchased for approximately $55
million an additional 39 percent equity interest in EDELAP, an Argentine
electric utility company in which HI Energy already indirectly owned  a 16.6
percent equity interest.  HI Energy purchased the interest with proceeds from
intercompany borrowings from the Company.  For additional information regarding
this acquisition, see Note 7(b) to the Interim Financial Statements.

RATIOS OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES

         The Company's ratios of earnings to fixed charges for the three and
twelve months ended March 31, 1996 were 0.68 and 2.56, respectively.  The
Company believes that the ratio for the three-month period is not necessarily
indicative of the ratio for a twelve-month period due to the seasonal nature of
HL&P's business and the recording of a $62 million after-tax charge to 1996
first quarter earnings.





                                    - 18 -
   19
                                      HL&P

GENERAL

         HL&P's net cash provided by operating activities for the first quarter
of 1996 totaled $77 million.  Net cash used in HL&P's investing activities for
the first quarter of 1996 totaled $72 million.  HL&P's capital and nuclear fuel
expenditures (excluding allowance for funds used during construction) for the
first three months of 1996 totaled $69 million out of the $387 million annual
budget.   HL&P's financing activities for the first quarter of 1996 resulted in
a net cash outflow of approximately $79 million primarily from payment of
dividends; the extinguishment of long-term debt; and the repayment of matured
long-term debt (all of which exceeded the increase in short-term borrowings).

SOURCES OF CAPITAL RESOURCES AND LIQUIDITY

         As of March 31, 1996, HL&P had approximately $204 million of
commercial paper outstanding.  HL&P's commercial paper borrowings are supported
by a bank line of credit of $400 million.

         In January 1996, HL&P repaid at maturity $110 million principal amount
(plus accrued interest) of its collateralized medium-term notes.  In March
1996, HL&P deposited approximately $86 million in a trust and irrevocably
instructed the trustee to redeem on May 8, 1996 certain of HL&P's first
mortgage bonds.  For information regarding these repayments and redemptions,
see Note 6 to the Interim Financial Statements.  For information regarding the
redemption in April 1996 of certain shares of HL&P's preferred stock, see Note
7(c) to the Interim Financial Statements.

RATIOS OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES

         HL&P's ratios of earnings to fixed charges for the three and twelve
months ended March 31, 1996 were 0.92 and 3.54, respectively.  HL&P's ratios of
earnings to fixed charges and preferred dividends for the three and twelve
months ended March 31, 1996, were 0.80 and 3.05, respectively.  HL&P believes
that the ratios for the three-month period are not necessarily indicative of
the ratios for a twelve-month period due to the seasonal nature of HL&P's
business and the recording of a $62 million after-tax charge to 1996 first
quarter earnings.

NEW ACCOUNTING ISSUES

         In January 1996,  the Company and HL&P adopted SFAS No. 121,
("Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets
to Be Disposed Of").  The adoption of SFAS No. 121 had no material effect on
the Company's or HL&P's financial condition or results of operations for the
three months ended March 31, 1996.

         Effective January 1, 1996, the Company and HL&P adopted SFAS No. 123,
"Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation."  In accordance with SFAS No. 123,
the Company will continue to apply the existing accounting rules contained in
Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to
Employees," and will disclose in future annual reports on Form 10-K the
required pro forma effect on net income and earnings per share of the fair
value based method of accounting for stock compensation.  The adoption of SFAS
No. 123 had no material effect on the Company's or HL&P's financial condition
or results of operations for the three months March 31, 1996.

         For information regarding SFAS Nos. 121 and 123, see "Management's
Discussion and Analysis of  Financial Condition and Results of Operations - New
Accounting Issues" in Item 7 of the Form 10-K.





                                    - 19 -
   20
                          PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1.          LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.

                 For a description of legal proceedings affecting the Company
                 and its subsidiaries, including HL&P and HI Energy, reference
                 is made to the information set forth in Item 3 of the Form
                 10-K and Notes 2(b), 3 and 4(c) to the Financial Statements in
                 the Form 10-K, which information, as qualified and updated by
                 the description of developments in regulatory and litigation
                 matters contained in Notes 3, 4 and 7(a) of the Notes to the
                 Interim Financial Statements included in Part I of this
                 Report, is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 6.  EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K.

(a)      Exhibits.

         Houston Industries Incorporated:

         Exhibit 11 -             Computation of Earnings per Common Share and
                                  Common Equivalent Share.
       
         Exhibit 12 -             Computation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed
                                  Charges.

         Exhibit 27 -             Financial Data Schedule.

         Exhibit 99(a) -          Notes 1(b), 2, 3, 4, and 11 to the Financial
                                  Statements included on pages 57, 59 through 
                                  64 and 73 through 74 of the Form 10-K.

         Houston Lighting & Power Company:

         Exhibit 12 -             Computation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed
                                  Charges and Ratios of Earnings to Fixed
                                  Charges and Preferred Dividends.

         Exhibit 27 -             Financial Data Schedule.

         Exhibit 99(a) -          Notes 1(b), 2, 3, 4 and 11 to the Financial
                                  Statements included on pages 57, 59 through 
                                  64 and 73 through 74 of the Form 10-K.

(b)      Reports on Form 8-K.

         None.





                                    - 20 -
   21
                                   SIGNATURE



         Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.


                                        HOUSTON INDUSTRIES INCORPORATED
                                                  (Registrant)




                                           /s/ Mary P. Ricciardello
                                        ------------------------------
                                               Mary P. Ricciardello
                                                  
                                        Vice President and Comptroller
                                        (Principal Accounting Officer)
 




Date:  May 13, 1996





                                    - 21 -
   22
                                   SIGNATURE



         Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.


                                        HOUSTON LIGHTING & POWER COMPANY
                                                  (Registrant)




                                          /s/ Mary P. Ricciardello
                                        ------------------------------
                                               Mary P. Ricciardello
                                                  
                                        Vice President and Comptroller
                                        (Principal Accounting Officer)
 



Date:  May 13, 1996





                                    - 22 -
   23
                                EXHIBIT INDEX

 
         Houston Industries Incorporated:

         Exhibit 11 -             Computation of Earnings per Common Share and
                                  Common Equivalent Share.
       
         Exhibit 12 -             Computation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed
                                  Charges.

         Exhibit 27 -             Financial Data Schedule.

         Exhibit 99(a) -          Notes 1(b), 2, 3, 4, and 11 to the Financial
                                  Statements included on pages 57, 59 through 
                                  64 and 73 through 74 of the Form 10-K.

         Houston Lighting & Power Company:

         Exhibit 12 -             Computation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed
                                  Charges and Ratios of Earnings to Fixed
                                  Charges and Preferred Dividends.

         Exhibit 27 -             Financial Data Schedule.

         Exhibit 99(a) -          Notes 1(b), 2, 3, 4 and 11 to the Financial
                                  Statements included on pages 57, 59 through 
                                  64 and 73 through 74 of the Form 10-K.