There is heightened interest in the process of desalination as a proposed drought-proof solution to address the issue of water scarcity with the ultimate goal of mitigating the harsh effects of drought that have affected the state of Texas since 2011. It is also important to note that the attraction of desalination goes beyond alleviating the effects of the drought. Several positive outcomes result from desalination: 1) ensuring water supply to industrial and public sectors, 2) avoiding restrictions on local and international economic activities due to unforeseen water scarcities, and 3) preventing overuse and depletion of the state’s natural water resources.

Even more compelling is the fact that Texas has spearheaded several recommendations on seawater desalination as one of the primary water management strategies that would potentially result in 125,514 acre-feet per year of new water supply by 2060 (Texas Water Development Board, 2012). Interest in the use of brackish groundwater as an alternative source of water for desalination also continues to grow as an alternative to the sole use of seawater. Another appealing aspect of the use of brackish groundwater is that its salt content is much less in comparison with seawater. This makes brackish groundwater more cost effective to desalinate than seawater. Nevertheless, other factors such as quantity, demand, economics, and environmental impacts must be considered prior to commencement of any desalination project regardless of water source.