NGL Energy Partners LP(US:NGL) Prnewswire·2026-02-03 12:38Core Insights - Natura Resources LLC has signed an agreement with NGL Water Solutions Permian LLC to integrate advanced molten-salt nuclear reactor technology with thermal desalination for power production and produced water treatment [1][2][3] Company Overview - Natura Resources is a leading developer of advanced small modular reactors, focusing on reliable energy, medical isotopes, and clean water [8] - The company has secured over $120 million in private funding and a commitment of $120 million from the State of Texas [8] Collaboration Details - The collaboration aims to combine Natura's 100-megawatt molten salt reactor with NGL's expertise in produced water treatment and desalination [2][3] - The partnership will utilize NGL's Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) permit to create a flexible and economic solution for power generation and water sourcing [2] Industry Context - The Permian Basin produces over 20 million barrels of produced water daily, highlighting the need for effective management and treatment solutions [4] - The collaboration addresses the growing challenge of produced water management in oil and gas regions, providing a scalable alternative to traditional disposal methods [4] Technological Advantages - Natura's molten-salt reactor technology features modular construction, a smaller footprint, and reduced water requirements, making it suitable for integration with thermal desalination [5] - The reactor operates at atmospheric pressure, enhancing safety and enabling the use of various fuels, including recycled nuclear fuel [5] Regulatory Milestones - The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that Natura's MSR-1 will be the first Generation IV reactor deployed in the U.S., with a construction permit issued in September 2024 for a 1-megawatt reactor [6] - The company plans to deploy its first 100-megawatt commercial-scale reactor by 2029 [6]