Zero Mass Water launches Source Hydropanels in SA

Cody Friesen, Zero Mass Water CEO, addresses the room at the launch of Zero Mass Water in Cape Town

The manufacturer's special solar panels use sunlight and air to produce water, requiring no electricity or water input. Production is made possible by the application of advanced materials science, thermodynamics and controls technology.

With South Africa facing an ongoing drought, and water security constantly on the agenda, Zero Mass Water has launched in the country this month.

Powered entirely by solar, Source Hydropanels extract water vapour from the air, converting it into liquid water. This water is mineralised with magnesium and calcium before being delivered directly to a tap.

Cody Friesen, Zero Mass Water CEO stands with US consul general Virginia Blaser in front of an array of Source Hydropanels

Developed by Zero Mass Water founder and CEO Cody Friesen, a materials scientist and associate professor at Arizona State University, Source utilises an ultra-absorbent material that collects water from the air around it in even arid conditions. Producing an average of three to five litres of water per panel per day, the hydropanels are built in arrays designed to meet the drinking water needs of each application.