A group of scientists from **Singapore** has managed to generate **electricity using raindrops**, an advancement that could turn precipitation into a [sustainable source of energy](https://noticiasambientales.com/energia/energia-renovable-en-cuba-buscan-que-el-26-de-su-generacion-electrica-sea-de-fuentes-limpias/). Their experiments have shown that this method **could be key for the future**, allowing for the harnessing of larger amounts of electricity from rain.
## The process: electricity generated by water
Researchers from the **National University of Singapore** have used a system where **water drops fall through a tube**, generating enough energy to **illuminate 12 LED bulbs**.
The functioning of this method is based on the **separation of charges principle**, similar to the phenomenon of **static electricity** observed when rubbing a balloon against the skin.
When water flows over certain surfaces, it **can gain or lose electric charge**, opening up an opportunity for energy harvesting.
## The potential of the plug flow
According to **Siowling Soh**, author of the study published in the journal **ACS Central Science**, the system works thanks to a **specific water flow pattern**, called **plug flow**.
This phenomenon generates **electric charges** as water circulates through a channel with a **conductive surface**, facilitating the generation of [clean and renewable electricity](https://noticiasambientales.com/energia/paneles-solares-en-auge-en-la-pampa-ahorro-y-energia-limpia/).
The researchers point out that this approach is a **viable alternative** for places with **small water volumes**, where traditional methods like **hydroelectric turbines** are not an option.
## Process optimization
One of the challenges of the method is the **limitation in the capture surface**, which reduces the system’s efficiency.
To improve performance, the researchers designed an **innovative device** where water **flows out of a tower through a metal needle**, forming **drops similar in size to raindrops** that hit a tube.
This frontal impact generates the **plug flow**, with **water columns interspersed with air pockets**, which **amplifies the charge separation**.
The water is collected in a **glass placed below**, and the cables installed on the top capture the **generated electricity** in the process.
## A rainwater collection system on rooftops?
The scientists affirm that the **plug flow system converts more than 10% of the water’s energy into electricity** flowing through the tube.
Given that the speed of the drops tested in the experiment was **lower than that of real rain**, experts suggest that the system could be adapted to **harness more electricity from natural precipitation**.
Furthermore, they highlight that this technology could be **easier to install and maintain** compared to **traditional hydroelectric plants**, making it a potentially viable option for **urban spaces** such as **building rooftops**.
*Cover photo: IStock*
