Urine powered electricity!

Scientists from the University of the West of England in Bristol, along with Global Aid Agency Oxfam, have developed new plumbing technology. The technology uses live microbes which feed on urine and convert it into power! The bacteria grown on carbon finer anodes that feed on urine are used by these microbial fuel cells. It is then broken down and generates electricity which is stored in a capacitor. 

The testing conveniently took place next to the student bar where enough urine was produced to power four LED light bulbs in the cubicle!  


Imagine using your toilet as part of your daily routine, and creating electricity for your home in the process! The purpose of this research is actually in the hope of serving refugee camps where electricity is not always possible, greatly improving women's sanitation safety in deprived countries.

The organisation within Oxfam hope to have the first toilet sent out to a refugee camp within the next 6 months.