SIT Alumni Desolenator (SIT 2016), a Dutch startup that develops solar powered water purification technology, was the winner of the Supernova Challenge in Dubai, the biggest start-up pitch competition in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, securing the top prize of $100,000.

In September,  Desolenator signed a partnership with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) to build a carbon-neutral water purification and desalination system that is completely powered by solar energy.

The cost-efficient system is estimated to produce potable water at less than $0.02 per litre. The companies have already installed a pilot plant at the Jebel Ali power plant and desalination complex, which has a minimum production capacity of 1,000 litres per day.