Texas Oilman Transforms Organic Farming Firm into Advanced Nuclear Startup
Doug Robison's $3.2 million investment in advanced nuclear tech at Abilene Christian University has launched Natura Resources, aiming to develop next-gen molten-salt reactors. The project focuses on affordable energy solutions and addressing water issues in Texas, with plans for its first reactor by 2028.
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Natura Resources, founded by Doug Robison, aims to develop next-generation molten-salt reactors, securing a $3.2 million initial investment. The first reactor, MSR-1, is scheduled for operation in 2028, with a planned commercial reactor in the Permian Basin by 2032.
Robison repurposed a defunct organic farming company to establish Natura, which has since formed partnerships with multiple universities, and acquired Shepherd Power last year. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission approved a key construction permit in 2024, but Natura has not yet achieved criticality, a milestone for reactor functionality.
Speed and regulatory efficiency are vital for Natura, especially in the context of rising energy demands from AI data centers. Robison also highlights potential water desalination benefits from reactor heat, addressing both energy and water scarcity issues in Texas.
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