Some solar panels follow the sun, while surplus energy can be stored in sand.
Now a Boston-based research team has developed a battery-free, solar-powered desalination system for remote areas.
The system utilises salt-heavy brackish groundwater and pumps it through a live membrane, meaning salt ions are drawn out as the water flows through. The novelty?
An ingenious sensor system, which monitors how much solar energy is produced at any given moment. With readings used to adjust both the flow rate and the voltage applied to the membrane. Up to five times a second.
During a six-month trial 5,000 litres of drinking water were produced continuously each day, irrespective of weather conditions.
Artificial intelligence, meanwhile, can help with wastewater treatment.
