File:OFFSHORE HYDROELECTRIC PLANT DESIGN CONFIGURATION.jpg

English: The Offshore Hydroelectric Plant design originated from a desire to create a new technology that would utilize hydro-electric power to tap the oceans enormous energy reserve. The concept is based on tapping energy potential created by head differences to generate electricity. As shown in accompanying figure, such an installation has an underwater powerhouse (PH1), a tail race sump (TRS), an elevator building (EB), an overhead tank (OHT) supported on a concrete gravity substructure (CGS 1), and another powerhouse (PH2) located at sea level. Power is exported via a submarine cable.

The plant operates by allowing sea water to flow though the turbines of PH1 to the TRS, from where it is continuously removed and power is generated when a sufficient head develops due to falling level in the sump. Water from TRS flows into a pair of troughs located in EB and is transported vertically by hoists to the OHT. Penstocks lead the water to another set of turbines located in PH2. to produce additional power which is then exported to the grid. This cycle is continuously repeated for maximum energy generation.

Unlike wind and tidal plants that are plagued with intermittent supply of power, the new design allows for continuous production of energy for most of the year because of a constantly recharging flow of water.

There should be a huge demand for this technology as it provides unlimited quantities of renewable energy close to centers of population and industry.

It will have a positive impact on the environment as it provides an excellent opportunity for mitigation of green house gas emissions and reduction in global warming.

This idea is the only ocean renewable energy source that can provide unlimited base load power at acceptable cost. There are no companies currently using this type of technology in the world.