Corpus Christi is preparing to break ground on what will be Texas’ first large-scale seawater desalination facility, marking a significant step in the state’s response to ongoing drought and water supply challenges. With Aquatech tapped as the core technology provider, the project—set within the city’s Inner Harbor Water Treatment Campus—is designed to produce up to 30 million gallons of drinking water per day, making it the third-largest of its kind in the Americas.
The plant is intended as a cornerstone for the Coastal Bend region’s water strategy, offering a drought-resilient alternative to traditional sources that continue to face pressure from prolonged dry periods. Beyond capacity, the project places a heavy emphasis on energy-efficient processes to tackle one of desalination’s most persistent critiques: its power demands.
The facility is expected to break ground in early 2026, with operations slated for 2028. Kiewit will serve as the prime contractor, while GHD is leading process design services.
Desalination’s Next Phase: Innovation and Industry Impact
Texas’ decision to move forward with this high-capacity facility signals a shift in how U.S. municipalities approach water infrastructure. Rather than treating desalination as a last resort, the Corpus Christi project positions it as a central piece of long-term planning in water-stressed regions…