Off-grid water solution wins national design award
by Cecilia Harris
Australia Water Association members Ampcontrol & Aurecon have received the Social Impact accolade at this year’s Good Design Awards for their latest creation, Gilghi — an innovative off-grid water treatment solution designed for application within remote communities.
Created in collaboration by the two organisations, the water treatment plant features a standalone hybrid power supply that uses solar photovoltaic panels, a back-up diesel generator and battery storage, with the aim of overcoming the demanding environmental conditions of the isolated communities.
Ampcontrol Managing Director and CEO Rod Henderson said the design focuses on ensuring access to potable water, aiming to service remote and isolated communities with environmental challenges.
“We are incredibly proud to be playing a role in delivering a sustainable water solution to communities in need through the innovative design and advanced technology of Gilghi,” he said.
“For remote communities, access to clean, safe drinking water can’t be taken for granted. The Gilghi unit is designed to be serviced and supported by the community it serves, making a meaningful improvement to people’s lives.”
Good Design Australia CEO Dr Brandon Gien said the award highlights the incredible work of Ampcontrol and Aurecon in working towards sustainable innovation for the needs of all communities, regardless of location or serviceability.
“Receiving a Good Design Award is a significant achievement given the very high calibre and record number of entries received in 2020,” he said.
“The projects represented in this year’s Good Design Awards shine a positive light on our creative and innovative capacity as human beings.
“These inspirational winning projects give me hope and optimism that our design community will continue to innovate, no matter how challenging the world around us is.”
Judges of this year’s Good Design Awards said the winning design has the potential to make positive and lasting improvements to the lives of people living in remote communities.
“A great solution and potentially a massive market across the globe. This off-grid containerised water treatment solution has the potential to make a significant impact on the lives of people who rely on groundwater for their main water supply,” the judges said.
“A breakthrough solution that provides remote communities with quality, potable water. This is such an amazing example of good design that makes our world better.”
