Corpus Christi, Texas – The Texas Environmental Quality Committee (TCEQ) has approved a critical permit for Corpus Christi’s first large desalination plant, the Internal Port Desalination Plant. This is a project that city leaders have said is essential to ensure water supply in the area.
The plant is expected to produce 36 million gallons of water per day, with an expected initial cost of $757 million. City officials are optimistic about the potential of a project to address the growing water demand in the area.
TCEQ has approved the permit for desalination plants at internal ports and the flow of environmental discussion
“Today’s decision by TCEQ is a major milestone in securing water not just for us but for the entire region,” said Paulette Guajardo, Mayor of Corpus Christi.
However, approval of the permit has sparked opposition from environmental groups and some local residents. They are concerned about the impact of plants on the neighbours and the bay. These groups attempted to block permission, but were ultimately denied.
“We know that some people are still concerned about science. We will continue to work with them,” Mayor Peter Zanoni said.
Some city council members have also expressed concern about the project’s potential environmental impact. Currently, the city is only studying emission impacts near plants. This is about 400 feet from the spill. Councillor Eric Cantu is currently promoting research in a wider, far-reaching field to explore how plants affect the whole bay.
“If there’s no impact, build two or three more as long as it’s safe. That’s fine,” Cantu says.
The proposed distant field study will be included in the city council agenda next Tuesday.
Environmental advocates argue that they are excluded from the conversation and are concerned about the long-term effects of plants, especially when research is incomplete.
“They don’t give environmental groups table seats,” said Jake Hernandez, spokesman for the Texas Campaign for the Environment. “This is a moment when it’s not okay to stay neutral.”
The city is waiting for one final permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers, which is expected soon. Construction of the plant is scheduled to begin in 2026, and is targeted for 2028.
To fund the project, residents can expect an increase in slide rates of $25 per month. Rates are directly linked to water usage, and industries pay higher fees. However, the city does not know the final construction costs until later this fall.
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