Current progress
Beyond the concept stage
The Riverbox prototype has been developed. We are now validating it through pilots and preparing to build the capacity needed for commercial deployment.
Current stage
Integration, testing & field validation
The Riverbox prototype has been developed. We are now completing system integration, testing and field validation of the first fully integrated pilot systems.
The current pilot-development phase is supported through an existing programme.
Mechanical performance
Turbine, drivetrain and structure under real river conditions.
Electrical performance
Generator integration, control, protection and power quality.
Varying capacities
Pilot systems tested at different capacities and operating conditions.
Repeatable production
Engineering, fabrication and testing procedures ready for production.
Where we are on the pathway
- ✓ CompletePrototype developed
- ● NowPilot validation
- Step 3Manufacturing capacity
- Step 4Local fabrication network
- Step 5Commercial installations
- Step 6Multi-site projects
- Step 7Regional expansion
Pilot design
How each pilot site works
Site infrastructure
Small diversion weir, local penstock piping, a turbine house and a basic mini-grid distribution line to target clusters.
Anchor loads first
Priority for rural health posts, schools and milling equipment to raise capacity factor and stimulate local economic activity.
Community ownership
Ownership transitions to a village cooperative, with a modest monthly household tariff paid into a ring-fenced maintenance fund.
Next
Short-term goals
Short-term goals
- Complete and field-test the first fully integrated Riverbox pilot systems at varying capacities and operating conditions.
- Validate mechanical, electrical and overall system performance under real field conditions.
- Identify and prepare suitable sites for additional pilots and early commercial deployments.
- Finalise the core engineering, fabrication and testing procedures required for repeatable production.
Impact
What Riverbox makes possible
- 1–10 m
- Low-head water sources
- US$70k
- Scale-up capital target
- 20+
- Rural communities targeted
- 100+
- Installations — long-term goal
Reliable local power
Continuous electricity from small rivers, day and night, for communities beyond the grid.
Productive use
Power for agriculture, milling, cold storage, small enterprises and community services.
Local skills & jobs
Machinists, fabricators, welders, electrical technicians and installers trained in Zambia.
Clean energy
Displacing diesel and kerosene with renewable run-of-river hydropower — no large dam required.
Help take Riverbox from pilot to production
Contribute to the development and deployment of Riverbox, or talk to us about investment and partnership.