Importance

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Abstract

An underwater turbo-generator unit for producing electrical power has a pressure-resistant shell that defines a sealed internal chamber. At least one water inlet extends through the shell to effect fluid communication between the chamber and a body of water surrounding the shell. A turbine is supported within the chamber to turn on a spin axis in response to admission of a flow of water into the chamber via the or each water inlet. The shell is arranged to maintain a gas-tilled space within the chamber, facilitating the use of a Pelton turbine that turns about a vertical spin axis. The or each water inlet communicates with at least one tubular penstock structure that can be supported by the unit outside the shell. The chamber communicates with, and drains water into, a fluid storage volume such as a pipeline positioned at a level beneath the chamber.

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First Claim