The clean energy applications of solar PV, powering everything from our homes and schools to large sports stadiums, are well-documented but less well known is thier potential to provide us with clean drinking water. Thanks to the research and technological developments of Australian company, F CUBED, the town of Ceduna in South Australia will be the first Australian recipient of the companies Carocell system.
The Carocell system, developed by F CUBED:
“emits no greenhouse gas emissions, uses no chemicals, no costly membranes, no filters, no electronics and no ongoing power source is required other than solar radiation. It produces safe, high quality potable water from any source, including seawater, groundwater and contaminated or polluted water.”
When the Carocell panels are placed in a series additional Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) technology can be employed, this converts waste brine into drinking water and a product called fractionalised salts (sodium chloride and magnesium chloride) which is a valuable byproduct and used for dust suppression in the mining industry.
In addition to producing panels that are low-cost, robust, modular and can be ground or roof mounted, the Carocell system is also almost twice as effective as similar systems. When combined with ZLD technology the system is also significantly cheaper than traditional reverse osmosis.
This Australian-first has already garnered international attention, with organisations in 20 different countries, including the United Nations Office of Project Services and World Bank, indicating significant interest in the technology. The company has previously deployed the system in India helping to bring clean drinking water to people in rural areas.
all images via F CUBED
© 2012 Solar Choice Pty Ltd
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I HOPE THAT YOU ARE HEAVILY SUBSIDISED BY GOVERNMENT.
Hi Frank,
We are not the recipient of any Government Funding as we only work with solar PV installer who meet a certain standard. We receive payment from the installer, not the customer, only after a contract has been signed.
Thanks for your comment.
It’s good to hear about people doing this kind of innovative work without government handouts.
I wish you great success!