Catenaa, Friday, November 07, 2025- Scientists in China have developed a floating generator that captures energy from raindrops by using water itself as both a structural and electrical component, offering a lightweight and affordable source of renewable energy.
The research team at Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics unveiled the device, called a floating droplet electricity generator, in the National Science Review.
Unlike traditional land-based systems that rely on rigid metal components, this model floats directly on water surfaces, cutting material weight by 80% and costs by about 50%.
When raindrops hit the generator’s dielectric surface, the water’s ions act as charge carriers, allowing the device to generate up to 250 volts per droplet -comparable to existing solid-state designs.
The floating structure also withstands changes in temperature, salinity, and natural conditions such as lake biofouling, maintaining stable performance in diverse environments.
The researchers demonstrated a 0.3-square-meter prototype capable of powering 50 LEDs and charging capacitors within minutes.
They said future systems could be scaled for use on lakes, reservoirs, or coastal regions, harvesting energy without occupying land.
The team described the project as a step toward “nature-integrated” technology that blends renewable energy production with ecological sustainability, potentially complementing solar and wind power.
