San Francisco-based Aquaria Technologies is on a mission to solve one of the most pressing issues of our time—access to clean drinking water. Founded in 2022, the company is making headlines with its innovative technology that extracts water directly from the air. This breakthrough not only addresses the increasing scarcity of water due to climate change but also offers a sustainable solution for communities in drought-stricken regions.
Aquaria Technologies has developed a line of atmospheric water generators (AWGs) that harness solar power to produce clean drinking water. Unlike traditional water sources, which are becoming increasingly unreliable due to climate change, these AWGs extract moisture from the air and convert it into potable water. This is achieved through a combination of advanced filtration systems and ultraviolet (UV) sterilization, ensuring that the water is not only safe to drink but also of the highest quality.
“Our goal is to provide an affordable, sustainable solution for clean drinking water, especially in areas hardest hit by climate change,” says Chris Young, a representative of Aquaria Technologies.
AWGs have been around for some time, but Aquaria’s models stand out for their efficiency and scalability. The company’s flagship product, the Hydropack X, is capable of producing up to 264 gallons (1,000 litres) of drinkable water per day. This is enough to meet the daily water needs of an average household, replacing its dependence on municipal water systems.
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The technology behind Aquaria’s AWGs is more sophisticated than a simple dehumidifier, which also extracts moisture from the air but does not produce clean drinking water. Aquaria’s systems include particulate and carbon filtration, as well as UV sterilization, to eliminate bacteria and other contaminants. Some models even offer mineralization options to enhance the water’s taste and nutritional value.
Aquaria Technologies offers a range of products designed to meet the needs of different communities and households. The Hydrostation, for example, can produce up to 132 gallons (500 litres) of water per day, enough to serve up to 1,500 people. This makes it ideal for use in parks, construction sites, and other public areas where access to clean water is critical.
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Aquaria
For individual households, the Hydropixel is a more compact option. It can produce up to 24 gallons (91 litres) of water per day and requires only a regular power outlet to operate. This model is particularly energy-efficient, using just 1.25 kWh per gallon, making it an attractive option for homeowners looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
“With the Hydropixel, homeowners can enjoy clean, fresh water at a fraction of the cost of bottled water, and with minimal environmental impact,” adds Young.
As climate change continues to exacerbate water scarcity worldwide, technologies like Aquaria’s AWGs are becoming increasingly vital. The company plans to supply a 1,000-home community in Hawaii with one of its systems later this year. This initiative is part of a broader effort to provide sustainable water solutions to areas that are most vulnerable to the effects of climate change.
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Aquaria
Aquaria Technologies is not the only company working in this space. Competitors like Genesis Systems are also developing water-from-air solutions, such as the WaterCube, which generates 120 gallons of water per day. However, Aquaria’s focus on solar power and scalability sets it apart from the competition.
“Our AWGs are designed to be as efficient and eco-friendly as possible,” says Young. “We believe that with the right technology, we can make a significant impact on global water scarcity.”
According to a report from New Atlas, Aquaria Technologies plans to expand its product line and explore new markets. The company is already a finalist for the Future Resilience Prize in the 2024 Urban Future Prize competition.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that the average American household uses about 300 gallons (1,136 litres) of water per day, with a significant portion going to waste due to leaks and inefficiencies. Aquaria’s AWGs could help reduce this wastage by providing a sustainable, on-demand water supply that is independent of traditional water sources.
“As the effects of climate change become more pronounced, the need for innovative water solutions will only grow,” concludes Young. “We’re committed to being at the forefront of this effort, providing clean, reliable water to communities around the world.”
