ReGen develops solar device to turn seawater into fresh water

It is negotiating a project in Jiangsu, China and exploring 100 sites in Morocco.

ReGen Technology Holdings Hong Kong Limited is developing a solar-powered device that turns seawater into fresh water, targeting drought-hit and soil-degraded areas.

Founded in 2024, the Hong Kong startup says its system will cost less than traditional small desalination plants, which can range from $1.2m to $1.4m (US$150,000 to US$180,000).

The unit is easy to assemble and deploy, even in remote locations, CEO Julian Gaertner told Hong Kong Business. “All you need is a relatively flat surface and access to ocean or salty water,” he said via Zoom.

The device uses heat to evaporate saltwater and collect fresh water. It runs on solar power and does not rely on heavy electricity use or chemical treatment.

The system can be scaled depending on water needs. It also uses software to manage water flow and lets users track production online.

ReGen plans to launch the product in 2027, along with a digital platform for orders. The company is also studying how to treat the leftover salt concentrate and extract useful materials.

The startup has received $600,000 from the Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Ltd.’s incubation programme and another $600,000 from the University of Hong Kong.

ReGen works on a project basis with agricultural firms, fish farms, combined fish-and-plant farms, and government agencies.

It is in talks for a project in Jiangsu, China and exploring about 100 possible sites in Morocco, Gaertner said.

Other potential markets include Cyprus, Gambia, Spain, Chile, and island communities in the Philippines, he added.