Two innovative hydropower solutions have been selected as finalists in England and Wales water regulator Ofwat's Water Discovery Challenge, a £4m competition aimed at non-water sector innovators with bold ideas to tackle complex water challenges.
Named in the list of 20 finalists is Vysion Technologies LTD, which aims to develop an energy harvesting micro-turbine for powering remote equipment used in pipeline monitoring. Currently, the sector relies on short-life, single-use, unrecycled batteries as a temporary solution. Vysion Technologies aims to overcome previous barriers by creating an advanced micro-turbine that provides long-term value and enables pipeline energy harvesting.
Another finalist is The Fish Friendly Hydropower Company Ltd, which is working on the Pico-Stream Turbine. This turbine is specifically designed for installation at wastewater treatment plants and aims to contribute to a greener and more sustainable future for the UK Water Sector.
The Water Discovery Challenge aims to find innovative solutions by casting a wide net outside the water sector. The 20 finalists will receive up to £50,000 from the Ofwat Innovation Fund, along with non-financial support and mentoring from water companies, to further develop their ideas. Up to 10 winners will then receive up to £450,000 and additional support to carry out pilots and further develop their concepts.
The Water Discovery Challenge is part of a series of competitions organized by Ofwat, in collaboration with Challenge Works, Arup, and Isle Utilities, to drive innovation and collaboration for the benefit of customers, society, and the environment. Ofwat has established a £200 million Innovation Fund to encourage new ways of working and increase collaboration within and beyond the water sector.
The Innovation Fund is a key component of Ofwat's approach to fostering innovation in the water sector. Alongside the Environment Agency and Drinking Water Inspectorate, Ofwat also runs StreamLine, a joint service that provides informal regulatory advice to innovators and businesses in the water industry.
