Minding the megatrends: Enron's Lay says conditions bode well for Houston. (Ken Lay of Enron Corp forebodes positive economy for Houston)

Despite Enron Corp.'s disappointing stock price recently, Ken Lay remains confident about his company and Houston's economy in the future.

Near term or long term, the energy scenario looks good, Enron's chairman and chief executive told a luncheon crowd at the Houston Forum this week. And Lay reminded the audience that 60 percent. of Houston's economy still depends on energy either directly or indirectly.

"There is no better time to be in energy," he says. "Last year alone 41,000 jobs were created."

Lay also laid out what he calls the "energy megatrends" that are shaping the industry and consequently Houston:

* Worldwide growth in demand for …