PowerSpout PLT

Target SDGs

Market Suggested Retail Price

$2,243.00

Target Users (Target Impact Group)

Household, Community, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises

Distributors / Implementing Organizations

The PowerSpout is distributed by various global distributors but its prime distributors are Aurora Power and Design, EcoInnovation, EcoVolt and Scoraig Wind Electric.  

Competitive Landscape

Direct competitors include Watter Buddy and PowerPal T1 Turgo Micro-hydroelectric Generator.

Manufacturing/Building Method

This product is mass produced in New Zealand.

Intellectural Property Type

Trademark

User Provision Model

Users can obtain the product from the manufacturer or global dealers.

Distributions to Date Status

As of 2016, 1,500 units have been distributed.Interview with representative

Design Specifications

The PowerSpout is a turbine that uses a micro-hydro generator to produce electricity by the conversion of the kinetic energy of a watercourse into electrical energy. Its main components are the turbine's blades, rotor, and a permanent magnet alternator. Since the turbine can be built in different sizes for different applications, each model has different technical specifications.  

Product Schematics

Technical Support

A user manual is supplied with the product. If further technical assistance is needed, users can contact the manufacturer in New Zealand. Local electricians or plumbers can be of help but may not be familiar with the specific technology.

Replacement Components

Replacement parts can be purchased from the manufacturer or dealer.

Lifecycle

This product has warranty on different parts of the system, and has an expected lifetime of 15+ years.^{Interview with representative}

Manufacturer Specified Performance Parameters

Designer specified performance targets include: modular, affordable, and durable.

Vetted Performance Status

A case study on a grid-tied Powerspout installation was carried out by EcoInnovation and showed that an average power of 533 W is achieved in contrast with the 810 W stated by the manufacturers. The reason for this results was attributed to not having stable conditions of head and flow. However, even in this conditions it was found that end users still can save money on electricity with the product. Similar case studies were carried out by EcoInnovation but on a high head installation and on an installation and system outline.  

Safety

Be sure to follow proper electrical installation and control guidelines.

Complementary Technical Systems

Some complementary systems are the MPPT or PWM battery charge controller, the DC to AC Inverters, the Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Filters, a Battery Storage and Diversion Loads.

Academic Research and References

Compliance with regulations

The product complies with several regulations (see references).

Evaluation methods

Catalyst R&D LTD performed a lifecycle analysis.

Other Information

Installation manuals, technical specifications, reference documents, case studies and PowerSpout videos.