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.
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.
The project includes plans to mitigate its environmental footprint, including methods to reduce chemical use and control biofouling—two areas where public scrutiny around desalination has grown. These features reflect cost-control priorities that will shape how similar projects are evaluated and funded in the future.
For Aquatech, the project reinforces its growing profile in the North American water sector. While its portfolio already includes industrial water treatment systems, this municipal project could broaden its relevance in the public utility space.
