Under the programme of installing solar distillation plants in non-electrified villages and on lighthouses facing drinking water problem Central Salt and Marine Chemicals Research Institute, Bhavnagar installed recently a few plants in villages. A plant of 5000 lit/day has been operating for last one year and the experience gained in this plant is discussed. Following empirical correlation for the productivity (y, litres/m 2 x day) as a function of solar radiation intensity (x 1, Cal/cm 2 x day), ambient temperature (x 2, °C) and wind velocity (X 3 KMPH) is obtained. Y = 0.005486x 1 - 0.0139x 2 + 0.0666x 3 - 0.433 Problems in construction and maintenance are discussed alongwith further scope of solar distillation in the country.