Elemental Water Makers
Sid Vollebregt
As an engineer, entrepreneur and clean tech specialist, Sid Vollebregt is driven by the connection between the ocean and the sun. Surfing shaped his commitment to protecting these resources and inspired the creation of Elemental Water Makers in 2012. With over 100 projects across more than 33 countries, the team delivers solar powered desalination for communities, resorts, industries and crisis relief. Their systems cut electricity use by up to 70 percent, operate fully off grid, avoid chemicals, minimise environmental impact and offer automated, low maintenance performance. They produce water at the lowest cost of ownership, generating clean water for as little as one to three dollars per thousand liters.
To ensure rural and underserved communities benefit from these solutions, Sid also co-founded the Elemental Water Foundation. This nonprofit supports long term freshwater access through community led projects in regions such as Madagascar and Yemen. Together, these efforts have already reached more than 250,000 people, with a mission to reach one million and empower coastal communities with sustainable, independent water supply.
Involved in:
- Water Security Solutions (December 2026)