What is the Noble Water Solutions Project?
Noble Water Solutions (Pty) Ltd (NWS) is a private company based in Cape Town, South Africa, with operations extending to Otterburn Park in Canada. Their mission? Tackling Africa’s water shortage head-on by providing innovative machinery that accesses contaminated water both below and above ground. This water is then pumped to the surface using solar power or mains electricity, where it enters their specially designed portable water treatment plant. This plant features a sterilization unit that filters and purifies the water, making it safe and suitable for drinking. The purified water meets the strict standards set by the World Health Organisation. Whether it’s boreholes, rivers, or dams, these water stations can pump contaminated water from various sources, providing a versatile solution to a pressing problem.
Main Benefits of the Noble Water Treatment Plant
The Noble Water Treatment Plant (NWTP) is nothing short of groundbreaking. Here are some key figures and facts that highlight its impact:
- Patented design with 24 international awards, including 7 world awards, recognizing innovation in civil engineering.
- The world’s first high-volume water treatment plant capable of producing 10,000 litres per day using solar power.
- Low maintenance requirements — only annual servicing needed.
- Uses a unique combination of ionization and oxidation to destroy pathogens and oxidize heavy metals like iron.
- Performs limited desalination, expanding its usability in various water conditions.
How Does the Technology Work?
The NWTP employs a clever mix of ionization and oxidation processes. These work together to eliminate disease-causing organisms and neutralize harmful heavy metals found in contaminated water. This means the water isn’t just filtered; it’s actively sterilized and purified to ensure safety. Plus, the plant can handle a bit of desalination, which is a bonus for areas where salt content is an issue. All this happens in a portable unit that’s designed to be user-friendly and efficient, making it ideal for remote or underserved locations.
Logistics and Deployment
When a buyer places an order, NWS ships a freight container containing 10 units (minimum order) dismantled to the buyer’s designated port. For South African customers, the container is delivered by road directly to the preferred location. Once the units arrive, a technician from NWS travels to the site to train local personnel on assembly, commissioning, and maintenance. This hands-on support ensures the water stations are set up correctly and can be operated smoothly. Consumables like replacement sterilization units are available on order from Cape Town, with each unit expected to last up to 5 years depending on contamination levels.
Why Solar Power Matters
One of the standout features of the NWTP is its ability to run on solar power. This is a game-changer, especially for rural or off-grid areas where electricity access is unreliable or non-existent. Solar power not only reduces operational costs but also makes the system environmentally friendly. It’s a sustainable approach that aligns perfectly with the goal of providing clean water without adding to carbon footprints. Plus, the system can switch to mains electricity when solar power isn’t available, offering flexibility and reliability.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – providing safe, affordable drinking water.
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – utilizing solar power for water treatment.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – pioneering innovative water treatment technology.
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – reducing waterborne diseases through sterilization.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – promoting renewable energy use and sustainable practices.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Water Access in Africa
Noble Water Solutions is more than just a company; it’s a beacon of hope for millions facing water scarcity. By combining cutting-edge technology with sustainable energy and practical deployment strategies, NWS is setting a new standard for how clean water can be accessed in challenging environments. The project’s success so far, marked by numerous awards and international recognition, hints at a future where safe drinking water is no longer a luxury but a basic right accessible to all. It’s a step forward in addressing one of Africa’s most urgent needs, and the journey is just beginning…
