From Policy to Pipes: Legislative Considerations for Desalination

What if the future of Texas’ water supply came from the ocean? In this episode, join hosts Carrie and Robert as they sit down with Bill Norris, President of the Texas Desalination Association, to explore how desalination could change the game for the Texas water supply. From the significance of Senate Bill 7 to the potential of seawater plants, we unpack the big moves happening behind the scenes. Don’t miss this fascinating dive into Texas’ water future.

Got a question for Robert and Carrie? Submit it here—we might answer it on the show!

First up, it’s the Pop Quiz (02:47)  

In the last episode, Lihy Teuerstein mentioned that IDE Technologies is able to recover up to what percentage of water during the desalination process?

a) 85-87%

b) 90-94%

c) 95-98%

Today’s Keywords: (04:20)

• TDS: Total Dissolved Solids (total concentration of dissolved “stuff” in water)

• Blended Cost: When a water supply comes from several different sources, and the price reflects the combined price points of the separate sources.

• Texas Legislative Session: The Texas Legislature meets every two years.

Today’s Guest: Bill Norris of Norris Water LLC and president of the Texas Desalination Association

• Robert Mace introduces our guest (07:13)

Bill Norris explores the viability of desalination as a new water source for Texans:

• From “Square” to “Flare:” Bill shares the history and overview of the Texas Desalination Association and how current bills are shaping up. (08:40)

• Funding the Future: Understand the Texas Water Fund’s role in water planning and the future of desalination. (14:20)

• The “Hydro-Illogical” Cycle: Explore the shifts in attitudes about desalination in the Lone Star State. (17:58)

• Cost/Benefit Analysis: What is a blended cost, and how can this reduce sticker shock for communities looking to implement desalination? (22:40)

• Better Late than Never: Despite decades of delay, Bill has a positive outlook for implementation. (25:27)

• Taking Notes: How can Texas learn from other countries about managing desalination? (28:58)

And Don’t Miss What’s Coming Next!

• Next Episode: Join Robert and Carrie for a discussion about the ecological considerations of desalination with Paul Montagna.

Episode Links and Resources:

• lege+water

• Texas Legislature Bill Search

• Norris Water LLC

• Texas Desalination Association

• Submit a question to the pod!

Theme song: Come Heck or Hot Water by Robert E. Mace

We want to thank pixabay.com for providing the sound effects.

Learn more about the Meadows Center at ⁠meadowscenter.txst.edu⁠.