In arid, semi-arid, and coastal areas, potable water is scarce. Because of the abundant sunlight, solar distillation can be used to convert saline water into drinkable distilled water in these areas. This method uses a clear airtight glass lid to transfer solar rays into a shallow darkish container with saline water.
Solar radiation penetrates the brine (impure salty water) through the covers, where it is collected and converted to heat, causing the water to evaporate. The vapors formed are condensed in the cool interior of the roof to produce pure water.