Why Desalination?
Not long ago, desalination was something only big cities could dream of- too expensive, too complex, too dependent on fossil fuels. But technology has come a long way. Solar power, smarter filtration, and energy recovery systems have changed what’s possible. Today, EWM low cost desalination technology is helping small towns and island communities turn seawater into safe, reliable drinking water – with zero emissions and minimal upkeep. See how it’s already making a difference in our latest case studies.
Eco Resort Using Efficient Desalination in Australia
Australia has more than 8,000 islands, including Fraser Island, the Whitsundays, Great Keppel, and Fitzroy. Many of these islands face challenges with freshwater supply, as rainfall is seasonal and dry periods are frequent. Surrounded by seawater, they are ideal locations for desalination. Using 70% less electricity, no chemicals, and reduced brine discharge, Elemental Water Makers’ solar-powered systems provide a sustainable, off-grid source of freshwater using only the sun and sea. On Louth Island, an eco-resort now produces 22 m³ of freshwater per day with only 60 kWh of energy, achieving 72% total savings and cutting CO₂ emissions by 44 tonnes per year. The resort required a reliable, low-impact solution for its island development. Elemental Water Makers supplied an efficient, modular system that can expand as water demand increases. This project shows how solar desalination technology proven in Australia can also support remote and coastal communities across New Zealand and the Pacific Islands, offering the same reliable, low-maintenance performance and minimal environmental footprint.
A Lifeline for Families in Hafun, Somalia
In Hafun, Somalia, years of drought, saltwater intrusion, and storm damage left the community with almost no access to safe water. Families depended on expensive water deliveries that few could afford, and every dry season brought new uncertainty. With support from Save the Children, Elemental Water Makers solar desalination system transformed this situation. Today, Hafun’s residents draw clean, affordable water powered entirely by sunlight. The system runs without diesel, needs minimal upkeep, and endures the region’s harsh conditions. As a scalable, renewable, and low-cost desalination technology, it shows how solar desalination can help local governments provide sustainable water access – meeting humanitarian needs while building long-term resilience against climate stress.
No Chemicals
Only manufacturer in the industry
100% Solar
Hybrid system, can be fully powered by solar energy
Securing Freshwater for a Drought-Affected Community in Madagascar
In Madagascar’s coastal village of Ambola, clean water had become increasingly scarce. Recurring droughts left families dependent on unreliable sources, and even the local school struggled to provide safe drinking water.
With the support of local partners, EWM solar desalination system transformed the situation. The unit now produces up to 30,000 litres of clean water daily – enough for both the school and the surrounding community. Its off-grid, low-maintenance design makes it especially suited to remote regions with limited infrastructure.
For local governments aiming to strengthen water security and climate resilience, Ambola’s experience shows how solar desalination can deliver lasting, scalable impact.
Sustainable Drinking Water for Cabilao Island, Philippines
In the Philippines, clean water is often costly and unevenly distributed – millions still rely on unsafe or unreliable sources. On Cabilao Island, families once depended on expensive water deliveries or contaminated wells that barely met daily needs.
That changed when an EWM solar desalination system, supported by NXTLVL Water and the Philippine government, was installed. Today, the system produces around 22,000 litres of clean water every day, providing over 2,500 residents with the island’s first reliable and sustainable water supply.
Unlike traditional methods, Elemental technology is energy-efficient, chemical-free, and easy to operate – making them an affordable long-term option for local governments seeking dependable solutions.
Why Solar Desalination for Communities Matters
With ICJ ruling that climate change impacts are severe and countries are responsible for protecting the rights of both people and environments from its impacts, the governments now shoulder a serious responsibility and need to look at ways to mitigate the effects of climate change and help communities adapt to the situation with reliable solutions. EWM solar desalination units, as a renewable, reliable, and sustainable solution, are a forward-thinking solution for governments to adapt to climate change while contributing to SDG 6, ensuring clean water and sanitation for communities.
Secure Reliable Water for Your Community with Bluemont
In many parts of New Zealand and the Pacific, clean water has become harder to count on. Some towns face dry spells that last longer than anyone remembers; others are watching saltwater slowly seep into their wells. It’s a quiet struggle that affects homes, schools, and local businesses alike.
That’s where Bluemont’s solar desalination systems come in. They’re simple, built to last, and run entirely on sunlight. For local councils and island communities, that means less worry about diesel, less maintenance, and a steady supply of clean water year-round.
If your community is looking for a practical way to stay water-secure in a changing climate, talk to us. Call +64(9)872 2622 or email info@bluemont.co.nz – we’re always happy to share what’s worked for others in the region. You can also get started by exploring our FAQs and desalination image gallery.