Coastal Plain Project in Calhoun County, TX
ExxonMobil is evaluating the construction of a large-scale ethane cracker and polyethylene (PE) plant near Corpus Christi, Texas, as part of its global growth strategy. The proposed site, located in Calhoun County, is under review following the company’s recent tax break application under the Texas Jobs, Energy, Technology, and Innovation Act (JETI) submitted in late 2024. If the project moves forward, construction could begin in 2026, with operations expected to commence by 2031 and create high paying jobs.
“The project is expected to create approximately 600 competitively paying jobs (300 permanent 300 contract) in the local area. Peak construction workforce requirements are over 3,000 people per day. The project is in competition with several other locations and opportunities across the globe. Several countries/locations in the Middle East and Asia as well as other locations in North America are being considered. Various levels of government support and tax relief are offered by the governments of the countries in competition for the project. If chosen, construction would begin as early as 2026 with startup of the facilities expected in the 2031 timeframe.” – from Source.
However, Texas isn’t the only location under consideration. According to the application, ExxonMobil is also exploring potential sites in the Middle East, Asia, and other parts of North America as it assesses the most strategic option for long-term expansion. The company has not disclosed specific capacity figures, but the total estimated investment could reach over $8.6 billion according application.
A project on the U.S. Gulf Coast would allow ExxonMobil to integrate operations with its existing facilities in the region, particularly in the Permian Basin. In a statement, the company emphasized that while the Calhoun County site holds promise, it remains in the early evaluation phase. Filing for a tax abatement is part of its due diligence process, required by law, and a key step in gaining clarity for stakeholders and the surrounding community.
ExxonMobil is no stranger to the Texas Gulf Coast. The company already operates a petrochemical complex in nearby San Patricio County through its Gulf Coast Growth Ventures joint venture with SABIC. That facility, which began operations earlier this decade, produces ethylene, PE, and ethylene glycols, reinforcing ExxonMobil’s presence in the region’s chemical industry.
As global demand for petrochemical products continues to rise, ExxonMobil is positioning itself to meet market needs with new investments. The final decision on this project will hinge on economic conditions, regulatory factors, and the company’s broader expansion goals.
Stay tuned as ExxonMobil evaluates its next big move in the petrochemical sector.
Source: Texas Comptroller
Source: Texas Comptroller
Source Texas Comptroller
