Most of us take having the internet, electricity and clean water for granted. Yet in many parts of the world, war, climate change, poverty or lack of resources can make all three scarce, costly or difficult to get. The clean technology start-up Watley is working to provide all these things to those who need them.
The Watley Machine is a solar-powered computer that can purify up to 1,320 gallons (5,000 liters) of water a day and generate enough electricity with its built-in 3G/4G router to give around 750 people internet access for one day. Roughly 131 feet (40 meters) long, this modular system uses a vapor compression distillation process to desalinate sea water and eliminate pathogens and pollutants.
Photovoltaic panels on top of the machine generate off-grid electricity. Any excess electricity, stored in a 140 kw battery, can be used to charge devices like smartphones, lamps and laptops. With 1,650 feet (500 meters) of Wi-Fi connectivity, it can send text, videos and pictures.
Over 3 years in the making, it’s been tested successfully in Ghana. The company hopes to install 10,000 units across Africa within 8 years. Funding for the larger “hub” will be the key: it costs $325,000 to build. But if and when it gets fully funded, it will definitely change the world.