Researchers at The University of Newcastle have developed the Hydro Harvester, a system capable of extracting up to 1000 litres of drinkable water per day from the air using renewable energy. Designed to provide an alternative source of water for rural and remote communities, the technology is nearing market readiness.
Developed by Laureate Professor Behdad Moghtaderi and his team at the University’s Centre for Innovative Energy Technologies, the Hydro Harvester absorbs atmospheric moisture and uses solar energy or waste heat to produce hot, humid air. This air is then cooled using ambient air as a heat sink, allowing water to be collected for drinking or irrigation.
Unlike commercially available atmospheric water generators (AWGs), which rely on refrigeration-based cooling, the Hydro Harvester’s thermal energy approach reduces electricity use and lowers the cost per litre of water. Professor Moghtaderi explained that the system is designed to function in diverse environmental conditions without dependence on temperature or humidity levels.
“With the ability to operate using solar thermal energy or waste heat, the Hydro Harvester has a lower electrical demand and a lower average cost of water per litre than commercial AWGs,” he said.
The project received funding from the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund, which allowed the team to scale up from an initial pilot producing 20 litres per day to the current 1000-litre modular system. The system is expected to be trialled in several remote communities later this year.
A launch event was held at the Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources (NIER), a research institute focused on industry collaboration in energy, resources, food, and water sectors. Speaking at the event, Meryl Swanson MP, Member for Paterson and Chair of the House Standing Committee on Agriculture, noted the potential benefits of the technology.
“It’s this kind of research and development that will lead the way for increased agriculture applications and help offer water security,” she said.
Professor Moghtaderi explained the wide-ranging applications of the Hydro Harvester beyond providing drinking water in drought-affected areas. He suggested it could be used to supply emergency water for livestock, support communities during infrastructure repairs, or provide water in disaster response efforts.
“We look forward to connecting with a range of potential partners to explore how our communities can benefit from this technology,” he said.
