The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) is throwing its support behind a game-changing project to transform sunlight and air into clean drinking water using an innovative renewables-powered technology called the hydropanel.
TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM said the hydropanel project was being delivered in partnership between the TSRA, SOURCE Global and Team Mills Foundation.
“This hydropanel project is a first for the Torres Strait, and we’re excited to demonstrate how new technologies can help improve sustainability and access to drinking water. The project will utilise SOURCE Global’s hydropanel technology which has already been deployed in more than 50 countries across the world,” Mr Stephen said.
“It aims to supplement existing local water supply with an additional climate-resilient resource which will further support healthy communities.
“We aim to build extra resilience into our local water supply in the face of climate change by creating multiple supplies of safe, clean, and reliable drinking water.
“The TSRA is working with SOURCE and other partners, including the Team Mills Foundation, to identify a suitable long-term site for the project. We welcome any other projects and partnerships focused on best practice and environmental sustainability so that we can continue to serve our communities and region, now and into the future,” he said.
The hydropanel project was launched at an interim location last week and will be installed at a suitable site taking into consideration the wet and dry seasons – ahead of potential broader rollout across more Torres Strait communities.
The panels can be monitored locally as well as remotely to review the production, quality, storage and consumption of drinking water.
SOURCE Hydropanels have been installed across Australia, including on homes in partnership with the Aboriginal House Office (AHO) in New South Wales, and in schools where drought has completely cut off local water supply. Closer to home, hydropanels have also been installed in Cape York, at the Mapoon Aboriginal Shire Council Community Centre.
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