The partnership targets the massive volume of "produced water" generated during hydraulic fracturing. NGL Energy currently treats and disposes of more than 3 million barrels of wastewater per day across the shale fields of West Texas and New Mexico. By integrating Natura’s molten-salt reactors, the companies aim to turn this byproduct into a viable water source, potentially reducing the industry’s reliance on local freshwater supplies.

Decarbonizing the Oil Patch

Natura Resources utilizes a liquid fuel made with molten salt, offering a compact energy source designed for industrial sites. This technology provides the high-intensity heat required for desalination without the carbon footprint of traditional power sources. According to the joint announcement, the venture could provide a blueprint for sustainable water management in high-production regions like the Permian Basin.

Market response to the deal was immediate, with NGL shares rising to $13.30 before the market open. The move reflects a broader pivot among energy service providers toward advanced nuclear solutions to solve logistical and environmental bottlenecks in the shale sector.