The tip actually comes directly from Logitech, who says that dark, rough, or dull surfaces can make your mouse sensor work harder. Since the sensor is the thing that draws the most power, helping it out with a reflective, lightly colored surface can help boost its battery life.
Digital Inspiration also notes that if you're desperate for battery power, you can create a simple reminder to turn off your mouse every time you shut down your computer, either through Windows' Task Scheduler or by changing your shutdown sound to a verbal reminder.