Core Viewpoint - Texas is set to implement a solution for the oil industry's wastewater issue, which poses its own environmental risks [1] Group 1: Regulatory Developments - State regulators are preparing to issue permits for four companies, including Texas Pacific Land Corp. and NGL Energy Partners LP, to release treated wastewater from the Permian Basin into the Pecos River, with potential approvals as early as Q1 2026 [2] - The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) stated it will not permit discharges that threaten aquatic life, violate water quality standards, or endanger human health [8] Group 2: Wastewater Generation and Treatment - The Permian Basin generates 21 million barrels per day of wastewater, which contains salt, chemicals, and heavy metals, primarily disposed of by underground injection [3] - Proposed treatment plants aim to clean wastewater for surface discharge, potentially reducing underground disposal and providing water for irrigation and cooling [4][10] - The cost of treating wastewater is significantly higher than underground disposal, estimated at $2 to $3 per barrel compared to 65 cents to $1.50 for injection [13] Group 3: Industry Response and Innovations - Texas Pacific is pursuing a pilot project to treat 10,000 barrels a day, which could address environmental issues and create a new revenue stream [15] - Other major companies like Exxon Mobil, Chevron, and ConocoPhillips are also exploring wastewater treatment technologies to reduce salt content and repurpose the water for industrial and agricultural uses [20][21] Group 4: Agricultural and Industrial Applications - Treated wastewater could be utilized for agricultural purposes, with pilot projects testing its application on crops like alfalfa and cotton [24] - Data center developers are potential customers for treated wastewater, as it could be used for cooling equipment [23] Group 5: Public Perception and Environmental Concerns - There is skepticism regarding the safety of treated wastewater, with concerns about its impact on ecosystems and human health [27][28] - Environmental advocates emphasize the need for thorough testing before allowing treated wastewater to be discharged into rivers [28]