This is WaterLight,developed by the Colombian renewable energy start-up, E-Dina. It’s a revolutionary lantern that generates light and power by using one of the most precious natural resources on earth, the sea. Using just two cups of saltwater, this beautiful lantern can create clean and renewable energy for up to 45 days! WaterLight is life-changing for communities who live in remote, off-grid areas without access to reliable electricity. Additionally, WaterLight is eco-friendly, being 100% recyclable and waterproof. So, it’s durable and sustainable regardless of where it ends up.
The WaterLight also has scared ancestral ties. Its design is inspired by the Colombian Wayúu community and their ancestral connection with the sea. This indigenous community lives on the remote La Guajira peninsula that spans the border of Colombia and Venezuela. This access to electricity fosters economic growth and improves their quality of life. Before the fishermen were unable to fish at night, children had to do their homework by candlelight, which was hazardous, artisans weren’t able to fill their orders, and cell phones couldn’t be charged. Now all of that has changed.
Source: collected
So, how does saltwater generate electricity? This incredible lantern utilizes the ionization of an electrolyte composed of saltwater, which converts the magnesium inside of the lantern. More specifically, it has a specifically-designed electronic circuit that manages to extend the transfer of these ions from a saline medium to convert them into convenient and instantaneous energy. The electrodes of the salt bridge enable the draining of energy from the saltwater, (an established process), but with the electronic circuit. This small yet mighty circuit makes it possible to extract around 500 watts for each liter of water!
The possibilities of WaterLight are limitless. It can help off-grid populations that need electricity to power lights, charge phones, or listen to the radio. It can also be used in the recreation business, such as by outdoorsmen and women camping in isolated regions, and in teaching, such as by turning on a computer or television.
Isn't seawater incredible?!