Blog 8: May 16, 2018
Press Release PRWEB
Majuro, Marshall Islands
Water From the Sun: Power for the Enewetak People
The Enewetak people of the Marshall Islands, whose fresh water supply is threatened by rising sea levels and severe drought, turned to Moana Marine LLC, who just completed installing their 100 percent solar and wind powered water purification system that converts sea water into safe, healthy drinking water, while also providing the community with a source of clean, renewal energy, granting them both water security and energy independence. This remarkable new technology, developed by Tom Vance, can be adapted for use anywhere in the world where fresh water is needed.
“We believe in supporting local economies in gaining strength, independence and climate change resilience, by producing clean, affordable, accessible power, to establish water and food security, transportation and communication reliability, into the future. We call this Community Power.”
In an historic moment, on April 5th, 2018, Moana Marine completed the installation of the largest wind and solar powered, reverse osmosis water making system in the Marshall Islands, ushering in a new era of water security and energy independence for the 850 local inhabitants of Enewetak Atoll.
The Enewetak people have endured a long history of occupation, displacement and devastation, first at the hands of the Japanese during World War II, then becoming the site of 43 American nuclear bomb test explosions during the 1950’s. The ancestral home they were once forced to evacuate, that was partially vaporized by America’s first open air hydrogen bomb explosion, is now home to a state-of-the-art ground mount, solar array and hybrid powered water making plant.
This extraordinary accomplishment was achieved by the nearly superhuman effort of Moana Marine’s founder, Tom Vance, who designed the plant, combining the cutting-edge technologies of Spectra Watermakers, Midnite Solar, OutBack Power, IronRidge and MorningStar. With his keen engineering know-how and 20 years’ experience in the Pacific Island region, Vance created the robust, 17 KW, hybrid, wind and solar system to power the two Spectra LB-2800 water making units which provide the people with 5,600 gallons of fresh, pure, mineral enhanced, drinking water every day. Vance’s solar design also generates electricity for sustainable, community enhancing projects, including a solar greenhouse and an electric vehicle charging station. Vance led every phase of supply and construction, working to install this life saving plant in brutal tropical conditions.
After surviving the vestiges of man-made nuclear bomb testing, the Enewetak people now face another threat—this time from global warming—which is causing sea levels to rise, threatening their fresh water supplies. Severe drought conditions prevail. This new plant will help them battle these threats by turning sea water into safe drinking water.
In an environment where logistical challenges often breed failure, Moana Marine’s impressive track record is unmatched. The company’s installations are the most reliable and long-lasting, hybrid powered, R.O. water-making systems in the Pacific, with installations on Utrik Atoll (2010), Kili Island (2014), Ailuk Atoll (2016) and now Enewetak. All of the plants are operated and run by local technicians, trained by Moana Marine.
Vance credits his success on the willingness of the local population to work in tandem with him through each stage of the five-week construction and implementation period. This unique, culturally sensitive relationship builds a sense of ownership and pride among the workers who bond in the positive momentum of the project. Together, they endure the intense pace, extreme heat and arduous tasks of shoveling cement, drilling into reef rock and hoisting heavy equipment to establish a source of clean water in the community. The effects of their success and resulting mastery are far reaching. Tom Vance is also quick to praise the U.S. Department of Interior for their steady hand in funding this type of project.
Moana Marine, with offices in Majuro, Marshall Islands and Port Townsend, Washington, is expanding its focus to a 5-prong approach to sustainable, community independence: water security, food security, power source security, electric vehicle charging and wireless internet. “We believe in supporting local economies in gaining strength, independence and climate change resilience, by producing clean, affordable, accessible power, to establish water and food security, transportation and communication reliability, into the future,” Vance Says. “We call this Community Power.”
Tom Vance is currently adapting his unique designs to serve another pressing need around the world—wind and solar powered units that can be rapidly deployed after a natural disaster strikes. Moana Marine will soon offer a trailer-able R.O. station that will be powered by wind and solar and include wireless internet, which will provide immediate help in areas left without power and water.
Blog 7: June 12, 2017
Press Release (PRWEB)
Majuro, Marshall Islands
Marshall Island Solar Mini-Grids Make Water, Save Lives
Amid unprecedented rising sea levels from Climate Change, forward thinking governments are discovering the world’s most technologically advanced, expandable, plug and play, solar and wind powered mini-grids and pairing them with high efficiency, R.O. water production units to ensure affordable, sustainable, water security for their communities during these changing times. Thousands of lives are being saved, and with them, the cultures that have sustained these noble people over the millennia.
“Engineers from around the world are choosing Moana Marine’s solar and wind powered R.O. water production plants to guarantee that life will go on as the seas rise, providing clean, safe water to properly maintain the health of communities at risk.”
Amid unprecedented rising sea levels from Climate Change, forward thinking governments are discovering the world’s most technologically advanced, expandable, plug and play, solar and wind powered mini-grids and pairing them with high efficiency, R.O. water production units to ensure affordable, sustainable, water security for their communities during these changing times.
Thousands of lives are being saved, and with them, the cultures that have sustained these noble people over the millennia.
Engineers from around the world are choosing Moana Marine’s solar and wind powered R.O. water production plants to guarantee that life will go on as the seas rise, providing clean, safe water to properly maintain the health of communities at risk. The units have drawn so much acclaim that executives from the biggest solar companies in the world have recently met with company president, Tom Vance, to express their interest in applying this innovative technology around the world.
Vance’s Moana Solar Power Packs are pre-assembled, plug and play, solar power grids that can be installed incrementally, and expanded upon as needed, allowing communities to slowly shift to 100% carbon neutral, renewable energy. His Moana Hybrid Power Pack utilizes both wind and solar energy to power the grid.
Moana Marine has been using these expandable solar and wind power grids to run energy-efficient, reverse osmosis watermaking units since 2009, creating affordable solutions for reliable, continuous, fresh water production in some of the world’s most remote areas. Concurrently, Vance designed the Moana Solar Power Pack used in disaster relief to power Spectra’s portable, plug and play, reverse osmosis watermaking unit, the Aquifer 360. Used successfully by IOM, USAID and AUSAID during the 2013, 2016 and 2017 droughts, its track record speaks for itself.
Moana Marine has established a worldwide reputation for excellence, garnering grants from USAID, IOM, UNDP (United Nations Develop Program), Australia, Taiwan and South Korea. Vance’s success in the Pacific leaves no doubt that his designs work. He has proven that Spectra Watermaker’s extraordinarily reliable R.O. equipment can be run entirely on the sun and wind, filtering sea water into pure, drinkable water and that local technicians can be trained to run the units, eliminating higher cost labor.
With the political changes in the western world, some donor nations are cutting back on humanitarian aid and disaster relief programs. Vulnerable communities are being called to implement practical, inexpensive solutions that will result in more self-reliance and energy independence, even as the threat of super droughts and cataclysmic storms looms on the horizon.
Marshall Island’s Utrik, Kili, Ebon, Ailuk and Enewetak island governments are leading the way, utilizing Moana Marine’s cutting edge solar and wind technology, perfectly designed by Vance to increase climate change resilience in extreme, marine environments.
Currently, remote Enewetak, Marshall Island’s northernmost atoll and site of America’s nuclear testing in the 1950’s, has had no measurable rainfall since November 2016. Using a Climate Change Resilience grant from the U.S. Department of Interior, forward thinking Senator Jack Ading and Mayor Jackson Ading have contracted Moana Marine to install an energy efficient, reverse osmosis watermaking plant powered by the Moana Hybrid, Solar and Wind Power Pack: “The drought is very sobering. We have to start now building a safe future for our children and our grandchildren.”
Moana Marine, with offices in Majuro, Marshall Islands and Port Townsend, Washington, is a leader in designing, engineering and installing expandable, plug and play mini-grids and energy-efficient, wind and solar-powered water desalination and water treatment plants in remote locations. Moana Marine stands for reliability, sustainability and durability, serving the generations to come.
Blog 6: March 19, 2015
Press Release (PRWEB)
Majuro, Marshall Islands
Pacific Islands Double Disaster Eased by Moana Marine’s RO Plants
Moana Marine’s wind and solar powered water treatment plants provide drinking water and electricity to communities devastated by the massive king tides that follow in the wake of Cyclone Pam.
“Without the R.O. plant, our people would be dying. We gather there for drinking water and for the solar and wind power. It is the only light on the island.”
In the devastating aftermath of Cyclone Pam, where dozens of communities in the Pacific Islands are experiencing utter destruction, including contamination of their drinking wells, thousands of lives are being saved by the use of wind and solar powered water treatment plants that convert sea water to drinkable water. Equipment installed by the U.S. and Marshall Islands based company, Moana Marine LLC, utilizing Spectra Watermaker’s unique reverse osmosis filtration system powered by wind and solar energy, is producing thousands of gallons of fresh water.
This area of the Pacific is experiencing a double disaster. In addition to the category 5 cyclone, local islanders are now enduring water surges called King Tides, which are repeatedly flooding their islands–destroying crops, septic systems, trees and shrubs, and most critically, sources of drinking water. These deadly tides, combined with electric power outages, are leaving thousands struggling to survive.
On the island or Kili, located in the Marshall Islands, approximately 1,700 miles north of Fii some 1,200 Bikini Islanders would likely perish if not for Moana Marine’s wind and solar powered water purification system. “Without the R.O. plant,” reflects acting mayor, Roger Joel, “our people would be dying. We gather there for drinking water and for the solar and wind power. It is the only light and refrigeration on the island. It has become our center for disaster relief.”
Moana Marine’s reverse osmosis water treatment systems are self-sustaining, able to operate even when an island’s infrastructure has been destroyed. It is the best solution for disaster relief and for future disaster preparedness in the world’s most vulnerable areas. Moana Marine personnel are available now to work with governments in the disaster zones to bring desperately needed equipment to remote areas.
About Moana Marine LLC:
Based in Port Townsend, Washington and Majuro, Marshall Islands, Moana Marine LLC is a leader in designing, engineering and installing energy-efficient, wind and solar-powered water desalination and water treatment plants for use in disaster relief and village water supplies in remote locations. Moana Marine stands ehind its installations, which are known worldwide for their reliability, sustainability and durability.
Pictures of King Tide flooding on Kili Island, Marshall Islands, March 2015:
Blog #6 May 15, 2014
Marshall Islands Journal Article
Kili Launches RO, Renewable Energy Project
Saturday, May 10th, marked the beginning of a new chapter for the people of Kili Island in the Marshall Islands that will help stave off the effects of Climate Change and instill hope for a healthy and sustainable future. DOI (United States Government Department of Interior) has been successful in its efforts to fund the same reverse osmosis water production and water treatment plant powered by wind and solar energy that has been successfully operating on Utrik Atoll since 2010. Bikini Projects staff in Majuro was proud to receive the first delivery of cargo on Saturday.
The RO/alternative energy plant, designed and installed by Moana Marine, will use two Spectra LB-2800 watermakers powered by wind and solar energy, to provide the community between 2800 and 5600 gallons per day of fresh, purified, EPA-approved drinking water. Local crews will be trained by Moana Marine on the everyday operation and maintenance of the system on-site while the system is being built. Work on Kili is projected to begin in July.
Tom Vance of Moana Marine reports that, “the world’s most efficient watermaker will be paired with the highest quality, marine-grade solar and wind power components to assure that little maintenance will be required and that no costly diesel-run generators will be needed to power the system.” Minerals and ph balancing will be added to the RO product water to create state-of-the-art drinking water. He further explains that the Kili community has been shackled by enormous diesel fuel bills that result from running four 500 KW generators and that the RO project is Phase One of the community’s plan “to reduce their diesel fuel consumption and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.”
Blog 5: March 29, 2014
Marshall Islands Journal
Majuro, Marshall Islands
Renewable Energy: Ready or Not
There is a silent undercurrent that is slowly gaining momentum in Majuro that instills hope for the future of the Marshallese people, and balances the challenges of climate change that are correspondingly on the rise.
On March 19, Angelina Hein and Walter Myazoe of the Ministry of R & D hosted the 3-day Renewable Readiness Assessment Workshop at MIR. In attendance were representatives of MALGOV, Department of Internal Affairs, Chief Secretary’s office, SPC, MEC, CMI, Marshall Island Development Bank, Tobolar, Island Radio, and Moana Marine LLC, as well as other ministries. The keynote speaker, Dr. Herbert Wade, of IRENA (International Renewable Energy Association), has had great success inspiring Pacific Island nations to overcome their doubts and fears of alternative energy, in order to adopt codes and regulations that make funds available to set up renewable energy systems that benefit individual households in the general population, as well as government and commercial entities.
The workshop highlighted three areas of renewable readiness: energy efficiency, off-grid solar systems and on-grid solar systems. Energy efficiency is crucial to the success of any solar installation. Incandescent light bulbs and inefficient electric appliances all need to be replaced with their energy efficient, energy star rated counterparts. A buy-back program could be implemented as part of the funding program.
An off-grid solar system is a self-contained system that uses batteries, a controller, and an inverter if 110 volt power is needed. This type of system is utilized throughout the outer islands. The group discussed funding replacement batteries and upgrading controllers on existing systems, as well as ways to make off-grid systems more efficient and durable by using marine grade wire and components.
A major focus was discussing on-grid solar systems for Majuro. An on-grid solar system is one that is mounted on individual homes and buildings to provide electricity to households and businesses. Any excess power produced is routed back to MEC. This reduces the amount of diesel fuel consumed to power their generators, which saves MEC money and reduces RMI’s carbon footprint.
Dr. Wade used Palau as a model for successful grid tie. In Palau, individuals receive loans to install solar panels on their homes. The loan payment is added to their electric bill. The individuals then receive credit for any excess solar power that they produce beyond their own power consumption. This credit is used to pay off the loan. Not only has this arrangement been successful, it has been extremely positive for the people. The money that they would normally use to pay their power bill is now freed up to feed and care for the needs of their families.
Moana Marine’s Tom Vance stated that the main concern expressed by energy companies has been how to keep the electric power grid stable when solar power is added. The good news, he explained, is that the technology is now available that protects the grid against any and all stability issues. What is crucial, however, is adopting a standard, national electric code like the one currently in use in the US, code EEE1547.1, which only allows the installation of approved, quality solar equipment that upholds the stabilization of the grid.
Life on Majuro is growing increasingly difficult. Prices go up, while wages remain the same. To make ends meet, many households have 2 or more people working. It is not uncommon for a household’s power bill to take up a significant part of the combined income. Many come to the realization that to adequately provide for their families, their only option is to migrate to the US. Reducing or eliminating the power bill will relieve households of this on-going burden and free up money that can be used to improve the quality of life.
Praises must be given to Angelina Hein and Walter Myazoe of R & D for hosting the workshop and for leading the way as the first ministry to audit their energy usage and reduce it by 60 percent by the addition of LED lights and energy efficient air conditioners and computers. Many thanks to MALGOV and MEC for their willingness to consider incorporating a solar energy program that would directly benefit the people. Thanks to SPC for their interest in the national codes and standards that will set the country on a new course; to CMI for being a leader in grid tie and for paving the way for others to follow; to Moana Marine for providing both technical and practical knowledge; and to all individuals present who contributed their ideas and enthusiasm about energy savings for a sustainable future.
Most importantly, special thanks to facilitator Dr Herbert Wade for his calm, steady dispensing of knowledge and his practical, hands-on approach that inspires us to take concrete steps now to create a bright future for the Marshallese people. By following Dr. Wade’s advice and adopting these proven, renewable energy standards and codes, and subsequently implementing the IRENA solar energy program, our government will be legislating nothing less than stability and freedom for future generations.
Blog 4: Sept 3, 2013
Marshall Islands Journal
Majuro, Marshall Islands
Moana Marine LLC Uses Seawater and Sun Power to Keep 6400 Marshallese Alive on Drought Stricken Atolls
For the first time, alternative energy and reverse osmosis (RO) watermaking technologies are being successfully combined in emergency aid relief efforts in the remote outer islands of the Marshall Island group. These distant atolls, some of the world’s most isolated communities, are separated from Majuro, the capital atoll and drought headquarters, by 90 to 680 miles of open ocean, with little infrastructure in place to connect them to the outside world.
Rainwater is the main source of drinking water in the islands where it is caught and held in large storage tanks. Well water is primarily used as a back up when rainwater supplies are low. After 10 months of little or no rain, their water tanks empty, people were forced to drink well water reported by the EPA to have salinity levels 15 times higher than the acceptable range, rendering it a serious health hazard. Reports of water-borne illnesses such as diarrhea, fever, and hepatitis, especially in children and the elderly, were on the rise. With the drought die off of local food staples such as banana, coconut, pandanus and breadfruit, 6400 lives hung in the balance.
When Tom Vance of Moana Marine LLC released his “Pacific Climate Change Solutions” on Feb 3, 2012, response around the Pacific was immediate. With signs of drought already manifesting in the Marshall Islands, aid agencies USAID and IOM (International Organization of Migration) turned to Moana Marine’s Pacific Solution #1. Within 2 months, five portable, Spectra Aquifer 360 watermakers, powered by the Moana Solar Power Packs, were gifted to the Marshallese Government for deployment to the drought affected atolls (Projects Page, www.moanamarine.com). Trained by Moana Marine, local Marshallese technicians were able to successfully install and operate the units.
On May 8, 2013, conditions in the Marshall Islands were elevated from a State of Drought Emergency to a State of National Disaster. USAID, IOM, and AUSAID (Australian Aid) responded by contracting Moana Marine for a total of 30 more of the Spectra Aquifer 360 watermaking units and uniquely designed Moana Solar Power Packs. Packed in rolling totes for immediate air freight shipping, the units were deployed and installed in as little as one hour, again using local technicians, boosting the confidence of the people and instilling hope that they can survive overtime on their home islands.
RMI National Water advisor and President of Moana Marine LLC, Tom Vance, praises the aid efforts and great success of the RO project: “The people of the Marshall Islands are very fortunate to be the beneficiaries of these cutting edge technologies. I commend USAID, IOM, and AUSAID for their forward thinking in choosing energy efficient, RO technology powered by alternative energy to address the current water crisis. This saved the aid agencies and their respective nation’s taxpayers many thousands of dollars in generator, fuel, and ship charter fees, and reduced the carbon footprint of the overall aid effort.
Thirty-five Spectra Aquifer 360s have been producing a continuous flow of clean, fresh drinking water to Marshallese people since the onset of the drought. No drought-related deaths have been reported and the local people are grateful for the reduction of clutter on their beaches that inevitably follows the dispersing of disposable aid-related products.
Phase 1 of the aid relief, getting drinking water to the people, has been a great success! Phase 2, now underway, involves rebuilding the agriculture with RO water and setting up UV sterilization on water catchment tanks, as well as installing permanent RO water production stations, powered by solar and wind energy, on all vulnerable atolls and islands in the region.
Climate change is an indisputable reality for the thousands of Pacific Islanders now residing on low-lying atolls. Rising sea surface levels and changing weather patterns, barely noticeable on large land masses like the United States, are affecting the delicate balance that supports life on these small islets. The time is now to implement practical, sustainable solutions that allow these rich and unique cultures to survive into the future.
About Moana Marine LLC:
Moana Marine is a USA/Pacific Island based company that provides water and alternative energy solutions to the Pacific Island Region. They are the exclusive regional distributors for Spectra Watermakers, Bergey Wind Power, and Beta Marine LTD. For more information, please visit their website: https://www.moanamarine.com/
To learn more about these efforts, please contact:
Tom Vance, Moana Marine President, RMI National Water Adviser
Office: 425-440-0724
tom@moanamarine.com
Blog 3: June 19, 2013
Marshall Islands Journal
Majuro, Marshall Islands
Background to Journal Article: On April 19th, 2013, the President of the Republic of Marshall Islands (RMI) declared a national state of emergency for the Northern Marshall Islands after months of drought. On May 8th, the National State of Emergency was elevated to a State of Drought Disaster. Acting as National Water Advisor, Tom Vance, of Moana Marine, joined forces with USAID, IOM and Spectra Watermakers to supply the drought affected islands with portable Spectra Aquifer 360 watermakers powered by alternative energy supplied by Moana Marine’s Solar Power Pack. 6400 of Marshallese people were kept healthy and alive by drinking the pure drinking water produced by these easily deployed, energy efficient R.O. units. The RO machines were installed and operated by Marshallese technicians trained by Moana Marine. The alternative energy component completely eliminated the need for costly generators, gasoline and diesel fuel, which are challenging at best to supply and maintain over time on these remote islands.
Though the project was a first-of-its-kind and a great success, there were skeptics who pointed to past fiascos involving RO technology as proof that this effort would eventually fail, adhering to the view that local technicians were not capable of operating and maintaining the equipment. It is true that many past aid efforts involving RO machines have lacked experts on the ground to oversee all phases of the project, ensuring proper installation, technician training, and on-going project management to ensure a successful outcome. Failures were a direct result (see our ‘Five Fundamentals’ below for information on this topic).
One such voice was expressed in an article published on the Opinions Page of the Marshall Islands Journal on May 24, 2013. In response, Julie Vance of Moana Marine LLC, wrote the following article which appeared on the Marshall Islands Journal Opinions Page on May 31, 2013:
New RO Machines: The Choice for the Future
I am always surprised when I hear people speak in skeptical terms about the solar powered RO machines like the ones currently being deployed to the outer islands for the emergency drought relief. My husband and I live on a yacht and have been drinking RO water from the same Spectra watermaker powered by wind and solar energy since 1997. It is a unit much like the ones being deployed now to the outer islands.
I am not at all technically savvy. Even after all these years, I still can’t tell you how the machine works, but I have learned to operate it and I can easily identify when something is going wrong. It is quite simple: when the water flow starts to slow down, number one, it is time to change the filter. Filters need to be changed often and regularly, as much as once a week, depending upon the quality of the feed water. Changing the filter is easy to do and used filters can be cleaned and then reused by soaking them in a bucket of RO water for a couple days then hanging them in the sun to dry. When the filter is changed regularly, years can go by with no other maintenance required.
In the 16 years we have had our watermaker, we have had to change the membrane once. You know when the membrane is fouled because the water starts tasting bad! And we had to change the feed pump twice, both easy fixes. For 16 years of daily water making, this is very little maintenance. It is not unlike owning a new car. You don’t have to be a mechanic to keep it running. Just change the oil regularly and it will drive smoothly for years without a problem.
I am also surprised when I hear people assert that local technicians are not capable of maintaining the machines. This is just not true. It is only a question of training, and as with any new learning, there is a learning curve that requires both patience and tenacity. This is underway and it should be praised! A permanent RO system, run by wind and solar that produces 3600 gallons of pure drinking water a day, was installed on Utrik Atoll in 2010. It has been successfully maintained by local technicians since that time.
Moana Marine, the local company that designed and installed the RO system, offers training to local technicians so they can maintain their own machines. Majuro Water and Sewer is combining with Moana Marine to provide on-going workshops and technician training. A certification program for RO technicians is in the works. These are very positive developments. The Utrik model is proof that it does work. And the wind and solar power is a no-brainer. No costly diesel fuel! No generators to maintain and repair! The unit pays for itself in fuel savings in just a few years.
RO water can also be used for growing hydroponic vegetables, providing drought stricken communities with fresh food to eat when local food sources dry up, as well as providing drip irrigation to keep bread fruit and pandanus trees alive. The technology is proven and economical when using alternative energy as the power source.
Increasing water catchment and storage capability by building more reservoirs and installing more water tanks is indeed a very good idea, but rainwater stored in this way has its own problems that need to be addressed. It is very hard to keep rainwater catchments clear of harmful, sickness-causing bacteria. Having spent years living in many outer islands around Micronesia, my husband and I learned firsthand the health challenges that exist with drinking rainwater from storage tanks.
Even during rainy times, diarrhea from amoebas, worms and parasites is a constant problem, and pinkeye and hepatitis are commonplace. Chronic inflammation due to water borne illness causes a range of more serious health problems and shortens the lifespan as well. Storage tanks inevitably become contaminated over time and then it doesn’t matter what goes in them. The water coming out is no longer safe to drink. And during a drought, when there is no rain, with what are you going to fill those tanks? And when it does start raining again, if the first rains aren’t used to thoroughly clean the tanks, the drinking water will be contaminated.
The most balanced solution in this time of climate change is to have both solutions in place: increased catchment and storage for rainwater, but equipped with state of the art UV sterilization and filtration so people don’t get sick from the bacteria in the tank and permanent RO watermaking systems powered by wind and solar energy that provide a continuous supply of fresh, pure drinking water irrespective of changing weather patterns.
During these changing times, we need to be forward thinking and utilize the technology available to find innovative, life-supporting ways to deal with the challenges that are upon us here-and-now. We can learn a lesson from Utrik. In times of uncertainty, it is best to be prepared.
Blog 2, Feb 3, 2012:
PACIFIC CLIMATE CHANGE SOLUTIONS
The effects of climate change upon the Pacific Island region are indisputable. Areas of prolonged drought are on the rise and many atolls report problems with their fresh water lens. Salt water intrusion and increased levels of harmful bacteria including hepatitis, strep, staph, and e-coli, gravely impact public health. Children and elders are particularly susceptible. A shortage of safe drinking water has far-reaching effects. It can devastate an entire community and hinder a nation’s economic development. Countless reports outline the serious problems faced by Pacific Island Nations due to climate change, but few offer solutions.
Moana Marine is committed to working with local island governments and communities to implement workable, sustainable, step-by-step solutions to what can appear to be overwhelming challenges. Predictions are for more droughts to come. Now is the time to mobilize resources, energy, and talent to prepare for what is to come.
Tom Vance, Owner-Director of Moana Marine, is a pioneer in the field of water purification and water production fueled by solar and wind energy in remote island environments. Experienced and skilled in every aspect of water technology, construction, and installation, Tom will ensure the success of your project from beginning to end, and make sure you have locally trained technicians to keep it operational for years to come.
Moana Marine LLC is:
- the certified Spectra Watermakers Distributor and Installer for all marine and lang-based watermaking units in the Pacific Island Region
- the certified Bergey Wind Power Distributor and Installer for all Bergey products in the Pacific Island region.
- an authorized vendor and installer for USAID (United States Agency of International Development) and I.O.M. (International Organization of Migration, a branch of the United Nations).
- a member of SEIAPI, the Sustainable Energy Industry Association of the Pacific Islands.
- located in Port Townsend, Washington and Majuro, Marshall Islands.
Moana Marine offers 10 clear and simple Pacific Climate Change Solutions, using the latest in reverse osmosis watermaking and alternative energy (wind and solar) technologies, proven to be successful and cost effective in remote island environments. Each of our permanent installations is specifically designed for remote, marine environments, with a life expectancy of 20+ years. We use only the highest quality components and corrosion resistant parts.
These solutions can be adapted to village environments in other remote locations around the world that have brackish or seawater sources available. In all isolated areas, we use redundant systems, that is, we install two of the same watermaking units side by side and run them sequentially. this extends the life of the machines and provides back up while regular maintenance is taking place.
We can install a Moana Water Dispensing Machine for easy distribution of the RO water at point of use. Our water dispensing machines include UV sterilization, mineral addition and ph balancing to further enhance the quality of the RO water for optimal health of the consumers.
Moana Marine will perform an on-site assessment to help you evaluate which solution best suits your need. Moana Marine is accustomed to working in remote tropical locations with very basic amenities.
Each of our permanent solutions includes:
- A Prefabricated Building to house the unit(s)
- Digging a Beach Well
- Installing Water Catchment Storage Tanks
- Installing Delivery Pipe
- Assembling the Solar Array
- Erecting the Wind Turbine, if applicable
- Wiring and Plumbing the RO Units
- Installing the UV Sterilizer, if applicable
- Installing a Moana Water Dispensing Machine, if applicable
- On-Site Technician Training
- Spare Filters, Membrane Cleaning Compound, Membrane Preservative for one year
- TDS Tester
MOANA SOLUTION 1, Water: Emergency Water Relief: Portable, Temporary Use for Small Community or Village Applications, Water only.
Summary: This package includes the Spectra Aquifer 360 Reverse Osmosis Watermaking system powered by solar energy, producing up to 360 gallons (1368 liters) of purified drinking water per 24 hours. Solution 1 requires minimal installation.
Aquifer 360 Specifications:
The Spectra Aquifer 360 is an affordable, lightweight and compact watermaking system that comes in a shock-resistant, non-corrosive case, ready to “plug and play.” The unit can be run on 12 VDC or 24 VDC, powered by batteries which can charge from alternative energy or a generator. The Aquifer produces 360 gallons of fresh water a day from seawater or brackish water. It includes a factory-mounted, Spectra high-pressure Clark pump, a 20-inch R.O. membrane, feed pump, pressure gauge, flow meter, and salinity monitor. The Aquifer 360 is uniquely designed to treat water for disaster relief, emergencies and military use, and is an excellent choice for use in remote locations. It can also be used for non-emergency water production and purification for small applications in remote areas. If the water is stored in a catchment tank, UV sterilization is recommended at all points of delivery.
Solution 1 is a water only package, that is, the solar energy produced is designated to run the watermaking unit only, nothing else.
Moana Solution 1 includes:
Spectra Aquifer 360 RO Watermaking Unit
1-Moana Solar Power Pack 360, including batteries
1-UV Sterilization
6-Storage Compound
6-Alkaline Cleaning Compound
12-5 Micron Filters
1-TDS Tester
On-site Technician Training
MOANA SOLUTION 2, Water and Power: Small Outer Island Medical Clinics and Schools, Water plus Basic Electricity:
Summary: This package is the same as Solution 1 with the addition of wind energy and a larger solar array to provide electricity for other basic needs beyond what is needed to power the watermaker. As in Solution 1, the Spectra Aquifer 360 is used to produce up to 360 gallons (1,368 liters) of purified drinking water per day. This solution is ideal for small clinics and school compounds in remote areas where simplicity and ease of installation are keys to success. The exact size of the solar array will be determined by the amount of electricity you want to produce. The list below is an estimate for basic use in a remote setting.
Moana Solution 2 includes:
1-Aquifer 360 RO Watermaking Unit (see specifications in Solution 1)
2-Moana Solar Power Pack 360, including batteries
1-Inverter
1-UV Sterilization
6-Storage Compound
6-Alkaline Cleaning Compound
12-5 Micron Filters
1-TDS Tester
On-site Technician Training
MOANA SOLUTION 3, Water: Small Communities, Hospitals, School Compounds, Embassies, Resorts, Permanent Installation, Water only
Summary: This package includes the Spectra LB-1800 or the LB-2800 watermaking system powered by wind and solar energy. The Spectra LB-1800 produces up to 1800 gallons (6813 liters) of purified water per 24 hour period from salt or brackish water. The Spectra LB-2800 produces an additional 1000 gallons (3785 liters) or 2800 gallons (10,599 liters) total. Because there is very little price difference between the two machines, we recommend the LB-2800 over the LB-1800. It is our experience that the demand for water increases after a community installs the RO units.
Spectra LB-1800 and LB-2800 Specifications:
The LB-1800 and LB-2800 come in three modular components that we install in an existing building or one we provide. These reverse osmosis watermaking units are the most energy efficient on the market today. Designed for land-based applications, they can treat high salinity brackish water or seawater. Using a fraction of the energy of conventional plants, they can be powered by renewable wind and solar energy. We recommend installing redundant systems, that is, installing two LB-systems side by side and running them sequentially. The wind and solar energy listed i designed to power the watermaking system only.
To view an inspiring slideshow of our installation on Utrik Atoll RMI that has been successfully maintained and operated by local technicians trained by Moana Marine since May 2011, please click https://moanamarine.com/projects and scroll down to the 2010-2011 entries.
Moana Solution 3 includes:
- Erecting an RO Housing Structure
- Digging a Beach Well
- Installing Water Catchment Storage Tanks
- Installing Delivery Pipe
- Assembling the Solar Array
- Erecting the Wind Turbines
- Wiring and Plumbing the RO Units
- Installing the UV Sterilization
- Installing the Moana Water Dispensing Machine
- On-site Technician Training
Components:
- 2-Spectra LB-1800 or LB-2800 RO Units
- 1-Bergey 3-KW Wind Turbine
- 1-Wind Turbine Tower
- 1-Moana Solar Power Pack 1800 or 2800, including solar application batteries
- 1-Water Dispensing Unit
- 1-UV Sterilization
- 6-Storage Compound
- 6-Alkaline Cleaning Compound
- 12-5 Micron Filters
- 1-TDS tester
MOANA SOLUTION 4, Water and Power: Small Communities, Hospitals, School Compounds, Embassies, Resorts, Permanent Installation: Water and Basic Electricity
Summary: This package is the same as Solution 3 with the addition of extra wind and solar energy to supply electricity for applications in addition to the water purification plant. Like Solution 3, it includes the Spectra LB-1800 or Spectra LB-2800 to produce between 1800 and 2800 gallons (6813 and 10,599 liters) of purified water per day from seawater or high salinity brackish water. The exact amount of extra wind and solar energy needed will be determined by a site assessment and energy audit. The following are estimates only.
Moana Solution 4 includes:
Erecting an RO Housing Structure Digging a Beach Well Installing Water Catchment Storage Tanks Installing Delivery Pipe Assembling Solar Array Erecting Wind Turbines Wiring and Plumbing RO Units Installing UV Sterilization Installing Moana Water Dispensing Unit On site Technician Training
Components: 2 – Spectra LB-1800 or LB-2800 Watermakers 1 – Bergey 3-KW Wind Turbine 1 – Wind Turbine Tower 2 or more – Moana Solar Power Pack 1800 or 2800, including solar batteries 1 – Inverter(s) 1- Water Dispensing Unit 6 – Storage Compound 6 – Alkaline Cleaning Compound 12 – 5 Micron Filters 1 – TDS Tester
MOANA SOLUTION 5, Water: Communities with a Brackish Feed Water Source, such as a Lake or Other Fresh Water Source with a TDS Reading of Less than 24,000 ppm.
Summary: This package includes the Spectra LB-4,000 Watermaking Unit powered by wind and solar energy, producing up to 4,000 gallons (11,356 liters) per 24 hours of purified water per day from a brackish water.
Spectra LB-4000 Specifications: The LB-4000 unit is delivered in three modular components that we install in an existing building or one we construct. It is an extremely energy efficient desalination plant designed exclusively for brackish water applications, that is, situations wheere the feed water is sourced from a lake or other fresh water source with a TDS reading of less than 24,000 ppm. The LB-4000 is more economical and more efficient than the watermaking units that treat saltwater and can easily be powered by wind and solar energy. As in our other packages, we recommend the use of redundant systems in remote locations. The wind and solar components listed are designed to power the watermaking plant.
Moana Solution 5 includes: Erecting an RO Housing Structure Digging a Beach Well Installing Water Catchment Storage Tanks Installing Delivery Pipe Assembling Solar Array Erecting Wind Turbines Wiring and Plumbing RO Units Installing UV Sterilization Installing Moana Water Dispensing Unit On site Technician Training
Components: 2 – Spectra LB-4000 Watermaking Units 1 – Bergey 3-KW Wind Turbine 1 – Wind Turbine Tower 2 or more – Moana Solar Power Pack 4000, including solar batteries 1 – Inverter(s) 1- Water Dispensing Unit 6 – Storage Compound 6 – Alkaline Cleaning Compound 12 – 5 Micron Filters 1 – TDS Tester
MOANA SOLUTION 6, Water and Power: Communities with a Brackish Feed Water Source, such as a Lake or Other Fresh Water Source with a TDS Reading of Less than 24,000 ppm
Summary: This package includes the same components as Solution 5 with the addition of extra wind and solar energy to supply electricity beyond that of powering the watermaking plant. Like Solution 5, it uses the Spectra LB-4,000 Watermaking Unit to produce 4,000 gallons (11,356 liters) of purified water per day from brackish water with a TDS reading of less than 25,000 ppm. The amount of extra wind and solar needed will be determined by a site assessment and energy audit.
MOANA SOLUTION 7, Water: Communities, Hospitals, School Campuses:
Summary: This package includes the energy efficient Spectra LB-10,000 Watermaking plant powered by wind and solar energy that produces up to 10,000 gallons (37,854 liters) of purified water per day from seawater or brackish water with a TDS reading over 25,000 ppm.
Spectra LB-10,000 Specifications: The LB-10,000 is an extremely energy efficient reverse osmosis desalination plant designed for stationary or industrial applications. The unit can desalinate seawater using just a fraction of the energy of conventional plants and can be powered entirely by renewable energy. The units are constructed in a rugged 304 stainless steel frame that we install in an existing building or one we construct
Moana Solution 7 includes: Erecting an RO Housing Structure Digging a Beach Well Installing Water Catchment Storage Tanks Installing Delivery Pipe Assembling Solar Array Erecting Wind Turbines Wiring and Plumbing RO Units Installing UV Sterilization Installing Moana Water Dispensing Unit On site Technician Training
Components: 2 – Spectra LB-10,000 Watermaking Units 1 – Bergey 6-KW Wind Turbine 1 – Wind Turbine Tower 2 or more – Moana Solar Power Pack 10,000, including solar batteries 1 – Inverter(s) 1- Water Dispensing Unit(s) 6 – Storage Compound 6 – Alkaline Cleaning Compound 12 – 5 Micron Filters 1 – TDS Tester
MOANA SOLUTION 8, Water and Power: Communities, Hospitals, School Campuses
Summary: As in Solution 7, this package includes the energy efficient Spectra LB-10,000 Watermaking plant powered by wind and solar, producing up to 10,000 gallons (37,854 liters) of purified water per 24 hours from seawater or high salinity brackish water. It includes the same components listed above, but will add extra wind and solar energy to supply electricity beyond that of powering the watermaking plant. The exact amount will be determined by a site assessment and energy audit.
MOANA SOLUTION 9, Water or Water and Power: Communities, Villages, Hospitals, Resorts
Summary: This package features the Containerized LB-20,000 which produces up to 20,000 gallons of purified water per 24 hours. Extremely energy efficient, it can be run exclusively on wind and solar energy using lithium battery storage. The LB-20,000 Container is contained within a standard shipping container, pre-plumbed and tested with all components, “plug and play.” It is completely automated with the Spectra Connect Controller with manual controls as backup. Composite construction for corrosion resistance and fixed energy recovery for easy operation and long service life.
MOANA SOLUTION 10, Water or Water and Power: Municipalities, Islands, Towns
Summary: Moana Marine can provide Reverse Osmosis Watermaking Systems that produce 100,000 to 600,000 gallons (378,541 to 1,135,623 liters) per 24 hours, suited for broad based municipal use. Alternative energy options will be discussed on site.
Blog 1, Dec 4, 2011:
THE FIVE FUNDAMENTALS
Ensuring the Success of Your Reverse Osmosis and Alternative Energy Project
Before making any decisions on your RO or Alternative Energy project in the Pacific Island Region, it is prudent to consider The Five Fundamentals to ensure the proper utilization of your funds and the long term success of your efforts and endeavors. Though choosing a supplier is important, it is only one part of a larger chain of considerations that must be addressed and then set in place to ensure the short and long term success of your project:
1. Purchasing: Purchasing should include a detailed on-site evaluation that assesses the energy consumption, needs, and requirements of your target population, the quality of the feed water, the location of the feed water source, and then choosing the most efficient technology that interfaces with these unique elements.
2. Location: Your equipment and supplies will be shipped to the capital island of the intended island nation, which is generally not the final destination. A plan needs to be in place to ensure that your cargo gets from the capital island to the designated outer-island, bearing in mind that many of these remote island regions have unpredictable air and sea transportation. Local airlines can be grounded for repair, sometimes for extended periods of time. This is especially crucial in emergency relief operations.
3. Installation: Installation is as important, if not more so, than purchasing. The best machinery and technology will remain idle if there is not a plan in place for proper installation by skilled technicians to complete the warranty requirements, keep the system operational, and ensure that the warranty stays in force. This may seem obvious, but all too often aid is drop-shipped to a recipient nation that lacks the skill base to properly install and operate the machinery.
4. Technician Training: Local, on-site technician training is the key to the long term success of any RO and alternative energy project in remote, outer-island environments. Past experience demonstrates that without this crucial element, the project will eventually fail. Machinery must be properly operated and maintained over time. Technician training is a realistic and achievable goal that inspires loyalty and pride while developing a local skill base that will support the continuing success of your project.
5. Ongoing Maintenance Schedule: Creating a clear and comprehensive maintenance schedule and overseeing compliance for a period of time is another critical key to success.
Moana Marine is a pioneer in RO and alternative energy installations in remote, Pacific Island environments. At Moana Marine, we ensure that each of the 5 Fundamentals is implemented efficiently and cost-effectively, so that government resources and valuable aid funds are maximized and humanitarian goals are met.
With offices in the Marshall Islands, Moana Marine is the only RO and Alternative Energy company that specializes in remote outer island site assessment, product evaluation, sales, installation, technician training, and ongoing maintenance. Moana Marine guarantees that their technicians will be on-site to perform all phases of the Five Fundamentals, in even the most remote locations.
Moana Marine is the only authorized Spectra Watermaker and Bergey Wind Power Distributer and Installer for the Central Pacific Island Region. Moana Marine is also an approved Vendor and Installer for IOM, (International Organization of Migration, a branch of the United Nations) and USAID (United States Agency International Development).
Manufactured in America, Spectra Watermakers are the most durable, time-tested, energy efficient and cost effective per liter of water production in the world today. They can be run on wind and solar energy, eliminating dependency upon costly diesel fuel. Once the Spectra Watermaking unit, powered by wind and solar energy, is deployed and in operation, no fuel or fuel-shipping costs are incurred. http://www.spectrawatermakers.com/landbased/index.php
Built to the highest American standards, Bergey Wind Turbines come with a ten year warranty. Rugged and durable, designed to withstand extreme weather conditions over time, Bergey Wind Turbines are the recommended choice for remote Pacific Island environments. http://www.bergey.com/
Visit our project page for more details.
Tom Vance
President and Founder of Moana Marine