Faced with the rapid increase in population and energy needs in Texas, innovative solutions are essential. The latest interim report from the Texas Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs highlights the urgency of strengthening the state’s energy resilience. Among the key initiatives, Natura Resources’ small modular reactor (SMR) technology stands out as a cornerstone for Texas’s energy future.
Natura Resources collaborates with renowned academic institutions such as Abilene Christian University, the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, and Georgia Tech University to develop an advanced molten salt SMR prototype. This system is designed to produce the process heat required for energy-intensive applications such as water desalination and industrial wastewater treatment. These innovations address the dual challenges of energy security and sustainable water management.
In September 2024, Natura Resources obtained a construction permit for its reactor prototype. The demonstration of this technology is expected to be completed by 2026. SMRs offer critical advantages, including compact design and high efficiency, making them a key tool in reducing carbon emissions while stabilizing the state’s electric grid.
Water and energy challenges in Texas
The Senate report emphasizes that more than half of Texas’s electric generation capacity relies on significant water inputs, leaving the grid vulnerable during drought periods. SMRs provide a solution by offering an energy source that is water-efficient. Furthermore, their flexibility and ability to generate continuous electricity position them as a viable alternative to traditional energy sources.
Doug Robison, founder and president of Natura Resources, stated: “We are committed to providing energy solutions that not only address today’s challenges but also prepare for a sustainable future. Our SMR technology represents a major step forward in clean energy innovation.”
A sustainable energy future for Texas
Through strategic partnerships and cutting-edge technologies, Natura Resources is driving a momentum that combines innovation and environmental stewardship. The economic and ecological impact of SMRs promises to solidify Texas’s position as a leader in energy innovation in the United States.
