The presented study is dedicated to a “green” solution for hot beverage packaging—a biodegradable single-use cup. Product development follows a specifically elaborated methodology that involves initial material characterization, followed by adjusted product design. The research and design activities continue toward mold design development and testing. The study concludes with a cost analysis, in which an alternative material composition is also examined. The finalized product is ready for industrialization, reaching TRL 5, with assessed financial aspects. This study is a good demonstration of the application of modern technologies and tools for the development of an innovative product.

The study aims to demonstrate the role and significance of product evaluation at the concept stage of its development. It is particularly dedicated to a contemporary product—a hydropower generation system—that is directly related to green renewable energy sources. The assessment of each of the six developed design variants combines the output of the virtual prototyping system (generated power) and an analysis of capital expenditure, both used to assess the return on investment period. The project’s financial aspects highly influence final design variant selection, and this is a good example of the possibility of including financial specifics at the early project stage.