How It Works
From Flowing Water to Predictable Renewable Power
FlowMotion Hydrokinetic Inc. (FM Hydro) transforms the predictable and reliable energy of rivers, tides, and ocean currents into clean electricity through a simple and effective design. At its core is our patented Archimedes screw turbine, refined through credible testing stages and informed by extensive hydrokinetic expertise.
The turbine is mounted above the waterline on a floating platform where it captures the strongest, least disturbed currents. This surface-mounted approach maximizes effectiveness while keeping all critical components accessible, enabling efficient maintenance without deep marine operations.
The modular structure allows for transport in sections and straightforward assembly, supporting phased deployment from single units to large arrays. Built on years of engineering insight and regulatory engagement, the platform is designed to provide scalable, ecologically compatible power in locations where conventional marine infrastructure has faced limitations.
$14B
Estimated Market Opportunity
25+
Years of Industry Experience
24/7
Baseload Power
01: Capturing the Flow
Steady. Gentle. Ecosystem-Compatible.
The process begins by positioning the Archimedes screw turbine in an area with steady water movement from rivers, tidal channels, or coastal currents. As the water passes through the screw, it turns in a slow and controlled rotation. This deliberate movement harnesses the energy within the flow with minimal disruption to the surrounding ecosystem.
The design is inherently fish-safe, allowing marine life to pass by unharmed. By operating from the top of the water column, the system avoids interference with sensitive seabed habitats while still capturing a consistent and predictable energy source.
01: Capturing the Flow
Steady. Gentle. Ecosystem-Compatible.
The process begins by positioning the Archimedes screw turbine in an area with steady water movement from rivers, tidal channels, or coastal currents. As the water passes through the screw, it turns in a slow and controlled rotation. This deliberate movement harnesses the energy within the flow without creating turbulence or disruption to the surrounding ecosystem.
The design is inherently fish-safe, allowing marine life to pass through unharmed. By operating above the seabed, the system avoids interference with sensitive underwater habitats while still capturing a consistent and predictable energy source.
02. Converting Motion into Energy
Efficient. Accessible. Built to Last.
The slow, powerful rotation of the screw is connected to a generator located above the waterline on the floating platform. This location protects the generator and key electrical components from the pressure, corrosion, and wear that occur in submerged environments.
The mechanical energy from the turning screw is efficiently converted into electricity in a controlled setting where maintenance crews can easily access equipment when needed. This surface-mounted approach simplifies operations and extends the lifespan of critical parts by avoiding unnecessary exposure to harsh marine conditions.
03. Delivering Power to the Grid
Consistent. Scalable. Community-Ready.
The electricity generated on the platform travels through an underwater cable to a shore-based facility, where it can be integrated into local distribution networks or supplied directly to dedicated projects. The predictability of tidal and river currents supports a steady and reliable output once systems are deployed at scale.
This consistency can contribute to local baseload supply, helping utilities meet demand and reducing reliance on intermittent energy sources. Designed for scalability, the same process can be applied to single-unit installations or expanded into arrays, creating a pathway for meaningful renewable energy contributions to regional and national grids.
02. Converting Motion into Energy
Efficient. Accessible. Built to Last.
The energy captured by the slow, powerful rotation of the screw is transferred to a generator located above the waterline on the floating platform. This location protects the generator and key electrical components from the pressure, corrosion, and wear that occur in submerged environments.
The mechanical energy from the turning screw is efficiently converted into electricity in a controlled setting where maintenance crews can easily access equipment when needed. This surface-mounted approach simplifies operations and extends the lifespan of critical parts by avoiding unnecessary exposure to harsh marine conditions.
03. Delivering Power to the Grid
Consistent. Scalable. Community-Ready.
The electricity generated on the platform travels through an underwater cable to a shore-based facility, where it can be integrated into local distribution networks or supplied directly to dedicated projects. The predictability of tidal and river currents supports a steady and reliable output once systems are deployed at scale.
This consistency can contribute to local baseload supply, helping utilities meet demand and reducing reliance on intermittent energy sources. Designed for scalability, the same process can be applied to single-unit installations or expanded into arrays, creating a pathway for meaningful renewable energy contributions to regional and national grids.
Simple Architecture.
Practical Application.
Designed for Real Conditions.
FM Hydro’s platform uses the steady motion of tidal and river currents to generate clean electricity that can integrate into modern utility systems. By drawing on one of nature’s most predictable energy sources, it is engineered to provide reliable renewable power that complements existing grids and supports long-term energy planning in coastal and river communities.
At the center is a patented Archimedes screw turbine mounted on a floating platform and secured with a streamlined anchoring system. This surface-mounted, modular configuration keeps critical components above the waterline for accessible maintenance, supports safe passage for marine life, and can be transported in sections for straightforward assembly. The design minimizes seabed disturbance, enables phased deployment from single units to full arrays, and offers a practical approach to delivering clean power in challenging marine environments.
Modular Design
Built in sections for easy transport, assembly, and scaling from single units to large arrays.
Surface Mounted Systems
Key components are accessible for maintenance without the need for complex subsea operations.
Ecologically Compatible
Engineered to protect marine life, aligning with regulatory requirements and adaptive management practices.
Deployment Efficiency
Requires fewer specialized vessels and can be installed faster and more easily than seabed-mounted systems.
Trusted by Industry Leaders
Hydro-Québec
"Floating hydrokinetic turbines are easier to install and maintain than those sitting on the river bed or ocean floor, and have a small environmental impact over the facility’s life cycle.”
Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult
“[FM Hydro]'s floating approach offers excellent potential for reduced capex and opex while the hinged Archimedes rotor with surface located power take off presents opportunities for good performance, survivability and reliability.”
Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult
"The surface-mounted design and modular platform present clear advantages for scalability, ease of servicing, and adaptation to diverse site conditions."
Uaine Gorm Power Associates Ltd
“The floating approach offers excellent potential for reduced capex and opex while the hinged Archimedes rotor with surface located power take off presents opportunities for good performance, survivability and reliability.”
Utilities
Government & Regulators
Project Developers
Investors
Partner with Us to Advance the Future of Marine Energy
Whether you are an investor, utility, policymaker, or project developer, we welcome opportunities to collaborate on advancing clean, predictable power from tides and currents.
Share your details and our team will connect with you to explore how FM Hydro can align with your priorities and project needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
FM Hydro uses a patented Archimedes screw turbine mounted above the waterline on a floating platform. This surface-mounted configuration keeps critical components accessible for maintenance, reduces installation complexity, and minimizes environmental impact compared to seabed-mounted systems.
Yes. The screw’s slow rotation and geometry are designed to allow safe passage for fish and other aquatic life. The design draws on credible testing and proven applications in other settings, and FM Hydro continues to work with regulators and scientists to ensure ecological compatibility.
FM Hydro is designed for a range of sites with consistent water flow, including tidal channels, rivers, and coastal currents. Its modular structure allows for phased deployment, from individual units in smaller communities to larger arrays for utility-scale projects.