‘Holy Grail’ of Solar Power? A $20 System Converts Water to Electricity

Everyone knows that the biggest obstacle facing solar energy is how to provide access to this clean, renewable energy to those who need it most.

Fortunately, Sun Catalytix, an innovative start-up founded by MIT professor Daniel Nocera, is working tirelessly to address this problem, and has now invented a groundbreaking solar system for a mere $20.

This system’s focus is collecting and storing solar energy for nighttime use. The idea is that regular solar power systems aren’t the best at providing energy during times when the sun is not out and shining. Energy storage then becomes a problem.

So with the help of one of his doctoral students, Nocera discovered that solar energy can split water into hydrogen and oxygen. That hydrogen can then be stored in a fuel cell for use at night. The best part? Any type of water can be used—even waste water.

“We have the capability to power a household with just two bottles of water from any source,” Nocera said. For now, the team is focusing on helping rural families in India that lack electricity of any kind.

Seeing the benefit of such a cost-friendly alternative, India’s Tata Group has decided to invest $10 million into the company in the hopes that it will eventually give low-income families an energy source they can afford.

Now with a substantial financial backer—the Tata Group is the largest solar panel manufacturer in India—Nocera and his team have a chance at making the impact they’ve always dreamed of.

Photo Credit: R Walker via Flickr CC

Posted on December 2nd in Solar Products by Kayla.