Natura Resources Announces Two Advanced Nuclear Deployments in Texas

Posted on February 18th, 2025 | Filed under Press Releases

ABILENE, Texas, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Natura Resources (Natura) is proud to announce the deployment of two advanced nuclear projects in Texas, aimed at enhancing energy security and reliability for the rapidly growing state. These deployments, located in the Permian Basin and at Texas A&M University’s RELLIS Campus, represent significant strides in addressing Texas’ energy and water needs.

The Natura MSR-100 is a cutting-edge small modular reactor (SMR) that utilizes molten salt reactor (MSR) technology.

Permian Basin Deployment
Natura has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Texas Tech University (TTU) and Abilene Christian University (ACU) to advance its molten salt reactor (MSR) technology. This collaboration, which includes the Texas Produced Water Consortium (TxPWC) at Texas Tech, focuses on integrating MSR technology with water desalination systems. The goal is to provide a sustainable solution for water scarcity by purifying produced water from oil and gas operations, making it available for agricultural and other beneficial uses.

Doug Robison, Founder and CEO of Natura Resources, emphasized the importance of this partnership: “Our collaboration with Texas Tech and ACU is a pivotal step in addressing Texas’ critical water and energy challenges. By leveraging our MSR technology, we aim to secure crucial water resources and drive innovation in clean energy.”

Texas A&M University RELLIS Campus Deployment
In a parallel effort, Natura is partnering with Texas A&M University to deploy the Natura MSR-100 reactor at the RELLIS Campus. This initiative is part of a broader project known as “The Energy Proving Ground,” which involves multiple nuclear reactor companies. The project aims to bring commercial-ready small modular reactors (SMRs) to the site, providing a reliable source of clean energy for the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT).

Doug Robison highlighted the significance of this deployment: “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Texas A&M University to showcase how our technology can meet the energy needs of Texas and the nation. The Natura MSR-100 at the RELLIS Campus will play a crucial role in advancing our clean energy mission.”

Technology Overview: Natura MSR-100
The Natura MSR-100 is a cutting-edge small modular reactor (SMR) that utilizes molten salt reactor (MSR) technology. Key features of the Natura MSR-100 include:

Liquid-Fueled Design: The reactor uses a liquid fuel composed of fissile uranium material dissolved in a molten salt mixture. This design enhances safety and efficiency and produces less long-lived radioactive waste.
High-Temperature Operation: The reactor operates at temperatures exceeding 600°C, which improves thermal efficiency and electricity generation.
Inherent Safety Features: The MSR-100 operates at lower pressures and includes passive safety mechanisms that reduce the risk of accidents.
Desalination Capability: The high-temperature heat generated by the MSR-100 can be used for desalination, providing a sustainable source of clean water.

State of Texas Endorsement
Governor Greg Abbott, in his State of the State Address on February 2, 2025, emphasized the importance of nuclear energy for Texas: “It is time for Texas to lead the nuclear power renaissance in the United States.” This statement underscores the state’s commitment to advancing nuclear technology and positioning Texas as a leader in clean energy innovation. Additionally, the 2024 Interim Report from the Texas Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs highlighted Natura as a potential solution to power the state water plan, further validating the significance of these deployments.

The Texas Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs, chaired by Senator Charles Perry, stated in the 2024 Interim Report that Natura’s advanced nuclear technology offers a promising solution to our state’s water and energy challenges. By integrating desalination with energy production, the technology can ensure a sustainable future for Texas.

During the press event at Texas A&M in February, Representative Cody Harris stated that advanced nuclear deployments, such as Natura’s deployment at the RELLIS, will positively impact not only Texas, but the rest of the World as well.

Driving Community and Business Growth in Texas
These advanced nuclear deployments are expected to have a profound impact on local communities. By providing a stable and reliable source of clean energy, these projects will support economic growth and job creation in the regions. The integration of Natura’s MSR technology with desalination systems will also address water scarcity, ensuring that local communities have access to purified water for agricultural and other uses. This dual benefit of energy and water security will enhance the quality of life for residents and contribute to the overall sustainability of the regions.

The need for reliable and abundant energy is critical for attracting and sustaining business growth in Texas. With the rise of data centers, fabrication, and manufacturing facilities, the demand for electricity is surging. Texas’ business-friendly environment, combined with Natura’s advanced nuclear technology, positions the state to meet this growing demand. By providing a stable and clean energy source, Natura’s deployments will support the expansion of data centers and other energy-intensive industries, driving economic development and solidifying Texas’ status as a leader in the 21st-century economy.

For more information about Natura Resources and its role in advancing small modular reactor technology, please contact Andrew Harmon or visit www.naturaresources.com.

About Natura Resources
Natura Resources LLC is a leading advanced reactor developer committed to answering the world’s increased demand for reliable energy, medical isotopes, and clean water by developing commercially deployable molten salt reactors. Natura’s small modular reactors are liquid-fueled and molten salt-cooled, which increases efficiency and reduces waste. The Natura MSR-1 being deployed at Abilene Christian University is the first liquid-fueled reactor design to receive a construction permit from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. In less than five years, Natura has established itself as a leading force in the advanced nuclear industry, fueled by a commitment to performance. Natura’s leadership team has a proven track record of revolutionizing the energy industry with innovative technology and tangible results. Natura is privately owned and has secured over $78 million in funding through its first three investment rounds.