The climate crisis is, at its core, a water crisis. The issue will continue to aggravate in the coming years, and if we don’t adapt, the survival of our communities will be at risk. In this article, we explore examples of desalination and case studies showcasing how solar desalination for communities changes lives for the better. Local governments can now count with a sustainable, practical and cost-effective solution.
Why Desalination?
With prolonged droughts, rising salinity levels, unpredictable rainfall patterns, communities around the world are grappling with a serious freshwater shortage.
For communities in the coastal areas and remote regions – who also happen to be the hardest hit from climate change and water scarcity – solar desalination is an incredible solution.
Historically, desalination has been energy-intensive and financially out of reach for small municipalities. But recent advances in solar power, energy recovery, and membrane technology have dramatically changed that. EWM desalination systems have proven to be a feasible and zero-emissions water solution ideal for localities grappling with freshwater supply challenges.
Take a look at our case studies on how EWM solar desalination systems for communities are making a difference!
A Lifeline for Families in Hafun, Somalia
In Hafun, Somalia, access to clean water was limited by severe drought, saltwater intrusion, and damaged infrastructure from frequent natural disasters. Water was often trucked in at high prices – affordable only to a few.
With support from Save the Children, EWM’s solar desalination system changed that. Today, families in Hafun rely on a stable, affordable water source powered entirely by the sun. With no need for diesel fuel, minimal operational costs, and the ability to run in harsh conditions, it’s a practical, scalable solution for other disaster-prone areas.
Being a sustainable and replicable model that’s very cost-effective in the long run, this type of solar desalination models are ideal for local governments that do not have the resources to invest in water management facilities. It also helps in managing humanitarian needs and improving disaster resilience.
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Eco Resort Using Efficient Desalination in Australia
Australia has more than 8,000 islands, including Fraser Island, the Whitsundays, Great Keppel, and Fitzroy. Many of these islands face challenges with fresh water supply, as rainfall is seasonal and dry periods are frequent. Surrounded by seawater, they are ideal locations for desalination. Using 70% less electricity, no chemicals, and reduced brine discharge, Elemental Water Makers’ solar-powered systems provide a sustainable, off-grid source of fresh water using only the sun and sea.
On Louth Island, an eco-resort now produces 22 m³ of fresh water per day with only 60 kWh of energy, achieving 72% total savings and reducing CO₂ emissions by 44 tonnes per year. The resort required a reliable, low-impact solution for its island development. Elemental Water Makers supplied an efficient, modular system that can expand as water demand increases. The system was delivered with flexible installation support and continues to operate with minimal maintenance and a small environmental footprint.
Securing Freshwater for a Drought-Affected Community in Madagascar
In Madagascar, recurring droughts have made clean freshwater a rare luxury. The coastal village of Ambola is surrounded by the ocean but struggles with daily water scarcity. Even the local school lacked access to safe drinking water.
With support from local partners, EWM installed a solar-powered desalination system that now supplies up to 30,000 litres of clean water every day – enough for both the school and the surrounding community. Its low-maintenance design and off-grid capability make it ideal for remote regions where infrastructure is limited.
For local governments seeking to strengthen water security and climate resilience in underserved areas, systems like this demonstrate what’s possible with the right technology.
Sustainable Drinking Water for Cabilao Island, Philippines
The Philippines has the highest water costs in Southeast Asia, with nearly seven million people relying on unsafe or unreliable water sources.
On Cabilao Island, residents once depended on expensive deliveries or unsafe wells. But with support from NXTLVL Water and the Philippine government, an EWM solar-powered desalination system was installed. It now generates up to 22,000 litres of clean water daily to over 2,500 people – the island’s first consistent and sustainable water supply.
Unlike traditional systems, EWM desalination units are highly energy-efficient, chemical-free, and built for easy operation, making them cost-effective for local governments.
Why Solar Desalination for Communities Is Important
With ICJ ruling that climate change impacts are severe and countries are responsible for protecting the rights of both people and environments from its impacts, the governments now shoulder a serious responsibility and need to look at ways to mitigate the effects of climate change and help communities adapt to the situation with reliable solutions.
EWM solar desalination units, as a renewable, reliable, and sustainable solution, are a forward-thinking solution for governments to adapt to climate change while contributing to SDG 6, ensuring clean water and sanitation for communities.
Secure Water for Your Community with Bluemont
Whether you’re managing a coastal town, a remote village, or a disaster-prone region, EWM technology offers a practical, scalable solution to your water security challenges.
At Bluemont, we understand the growing pressure local governments face to secure clean, affordable water for their communities – especially as climate challenges intensify. That’s why our solar desalination solutions are designed to be scalable, sustainable, and easy to maintain. We are based in Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands.
Want to know more about solar desalination for communities? Get in touch with us by calling +61 2 9091 0360 or email us at info@bluemont.com.au. You can also start by browsing our Desalination FAQs.