Abstract
A proposal is made for the use of a traditional stream waterwheel suspended between two floating catamaran NPL series demi-hulls as means of generating electrical power. Two prototype devices, of lengths 1.6m and 4.5m, have been developed, constructed and tested. It was found that the concept is sound although greater investment is required with regards to the materials and both hydrodynamic and aerodynamic design of the waterwheel to ensure an economically viable system. The work presented concentrates on practical aspects associated with design, construction and trial testing in Southampton water of the 4.5m prototype. The relatively low cost, ease of deployment, and the fact that conventional boat mooring systems are effective, combine to make this an attractive alternative energy solution for remote communities.