Modular systems provide water and solar power to rural areas 

OffGridBox is an all-in-one system that provides solar energy and purified water to make communities more resilient in the face of climate change

Spotted: Right now, over two billion people do not have access to safe water, and almost 800 million do not have access to energy. Climate change is only worsening this, with severe droughts and floods impacting people’s water access and damaging energy infrastructure and networks. To give communities better access to these necessities, a Massachusetts-based team set to work. The result was OffGridBox, an all-in-one product that produces electricity and clean water sustainably and affordably. 

To harness electricity, this small but mighty device harnesses the power of the sun through its innovative solar panel and inverter system. The electricity it generates can not only power entire communities, but also be stored for later use in its internal batteries. The OffGridBox also contains a rain capture and water treatment system, which allows it to collect and purify water from sources such as wells, rivers, and even oceans. Like the captured energy, its captured water can be stored and distributed when needed. 

The OffGridBox seeks to replace traditional generators that power rural communities. This solution is quieter, easier to use, cheaper to run, and – most importantly – its greener. By capturing energy directly from the sun instead of using fossil fuels, no carbon emissions are produced.  

The company launched its first pilot programme in 2016 and, since then, has expanded to 18 countries across the globe.

Springwise has previously spotted other innovations aimed at bringing solar power to those who need it most, including solar-powered street carts and solar refrigeration and heating systems.

Written By: Georgia King