Solar Still: 3 Gallons Clean Water Daily

The El Paso Solar Energy Association (EPSEA) developed a still design in 1995 that is both efficient and cost effective. They have been using it in rural Mexican villages to provide residents with clean water. In Mexico the still produces 3 gallons of water a day. I think it would be different here because of the cooler climate and reduced number of sunny days. But on a sunny day you could store up water for cloudy days.

EPSEA sells both construction plans ($27) and construction kits ($245, incl shipping). The kit seems to be a great deal since new materials are estimated at $300 unless you buy bulk. However, you could probably find some important reuse items (patio doors for glass, wood, etc.) to hack down costs. There might even be some design changes for our climate and I am sure it could be jazzed up so that it was more aesthetically pleasing. You never know until you have plans in hand. Buy them here.