CCP Desalination Plan Back in Focus
Corpus Christi leaders are revisiting a major water supply proposal—this time with a different strategy. Instead of purchasing a desalination plant outright, city officials are considering a long-term agreement to buy treated water from the Corpus Christi Polymers (CCP) facility.
The City Council will discuss the proposal at its March 24 meeting. Specifically, council members will decide whether to authorize staff to evaluate the project and begin negotiations with Aquatech. This third-party operator would manage the plant and supply water to the city.
This renewed approach reflects a shift in how Corpus Christi plans to secure its future water needs, especially as population growth and industrial demand continue to rise.
Why the City Shifted Its Strategy
From Ownership to Partnership
Initially, city officials explored purchasing the CCP’s desalination plant. In October, early estimates placed the cost of acquiring the facility—capable of producing about 9 million gallons per day (MGD)—at roughly $225 million.
However, the CCP proposed an alternative: instead of buying the plant, the city could enter into a water supply agreement. This model would allow Corpus Christi to access potable water without taking on the full financial and operational burden of ownership.
Ultimately, CCP’s owners chose not to sell the plant. As a result, city leaders pivoted toward a partnership model that could still meet water demands while reducing upfront costs.
Role of Aquatech in the Proposal
Under the current plan, Aquatech would take responsibility for completing the desalination plant and ensuring it becomes fully operational. According to City Manager Peter Zanoni, the facility remains unfinished and requires additional design and construction work.
Once completed, the plant could initially produce about 9 MGD of potable water. Over time, Aquatech could expand capacity to approximately 14 MGD.
Importantly, CCP would use a portion of that supply for its own operations. The remaining water—estimated at around 5 MGD—would be sold to the City of Corpus Christi under a long-term agreement.
Current Status of the CCP Facility
Construction and Capacity Outlook
City officials previously reported that the desalination plant was 90% to 95% complete. However, officials now confirm that the facility still requires significant work before it can begin operations.
Additionally, CCP’s plastics manufacturing plant remains under construction. This timeline affects how soon the desalination facility can reach full capacity and begin supplying excess water to the city.
Despite these uncertainties, city leaders see potential in leveraging private infrastructure to strengthen the municipal water supply.
A Broader Push for Water Security
Multiple Projects Under Consideration
The CCP proposal is not the only desalination effort under review. In fact, Corpus Christi officials have recently taken steps to explore another major project.
On March 17, the City Council approved moving forward with discussions with CPS Energy. The talks focus on potentially developing a desalination plant at the Barney Davis Power Plant site.
This concept has surfaced periodically over the years, but renewed urgency around water supply has pushed it back into the spotlight.
Diversifying Water Sources
By pursuing multiple desalination options, Corpus Christi aims to diversify its water portfolio. This strategy reduces reliance on traditional sources, such as reservoirs, which can fluctuate due to drought and climate variability.
Moreover, desalination provides a more consistent, drought-resistant supply, making it an attractive long-term solution for coastal cities.
What Happens Next
Council Decision Could Shape Future Supply
The March 24 City Council meeting will play a critical role in determining the next steps. If approved, city staff will begin a detailed evaluation of the CCP proposal and initiate negotiations with Aquatech.
These discussions will likely address key factors such as pricing, infrastructure requirements, timelines, and long-term sustainability.
Balancing Cost and Reliability
City leaders must weigh the financial implications of a water purchase agreement against the benefits of securing a reliable supply. While the partnership model reduces upfront capital costs, it may involve long-term contractual commitments.
Nevertheless, officials appear focused on ensuring that Corpus Christi can meet growing water demands without overextending its budget.
A Strategic Turning Point
Corpus Christi’s renewed focus on desalination highlights a broader shift toward innovative water management solutions. By exploring partnerships with private entities such as CCP and Aquatech, the city is positioning itself to address future challenges proactively.
As negotiations unfold, residents and stakeholders will be watching closely. The outcome could shape the region’s water strategy for decades, influencing everything from economic development to environmental sustainability.