Harvesting Namib Desert Fog with High Voltage

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Intelligence Network • Data Science • AI Research • World News
Published: 2026-09-02T20:02:12.183Z • Permanent link

Researchers at the University of Cape Town have successfully harnessed the fog from the Namib Desert using high-voltage technology. Led by Dr. Bruce Corney, the team has developed a system that can capture and convert the fog into electricity. The system uses a network of 3D-printed electrodes to attract and collect the fog, which is then converted into DC power.

The project, which began in 2019, was funded by the South African National Research Foundation and the University of Cape Town. The team worked closely with the Namibian government and local communities to develop the system. The system has been tested in the town of Lüderitz, where it has been generating enough electricity to power a small number of homes.

The fog harvesting system is part of a growing trend of innovative technologies being developed to address energy poverty in Africa. The Namib Desert is known for its unique fog, which can be found in certain areas of the country. The fog is created when cold air from the Antarctic meets the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean, resulting in a layer of fog that can persist for days. The fog is a valuable resource, providing water and nutrients to crops and wildlife.

The successful development of the fog harvesting system has significant implications for the energy sector in Africa. The system has the potential to provide clean and renewable energy to remote communities, reducing their reliance on diesel generators and other polluting fuels. The system could also provide a new source of income for local communities, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth.

Companies such as Siemens and Vestas are already investing heavily in renewable energy projects in Africa. The Namibian government has also set ambitious targets to increase the use of renewable energy in the country. The fog harvesting system is a key part of this effort, and its success could pave the way for the widespread adoption of other innovative energy technologies.

The development of the fog harvesting system is part of a broader trend of innovation in the energy sector. Other technologies, such as solar and wind power, are becoming increasingly cost-competitive with fossil fuels, making them more attractive to investors and policymakers. However, the adoption of these technologies is often hampered by infrastructure challenges, such as lack of grid connectivity and storage capacity.