Problem: Intermittency of wind energy supply from wind turbines Technology: This invention is a system for simultaneously anchoring floating offshore energy harvesting machines such as wind turbines and wave energy machines storing excess energy harvested and then generating continuous power to meet baseload demands. It consists of a subsea structure with a chamber that is anchored to the seafloor by either gravity or piles to resist mooring cable loads on the supporting floating structure used for the energy harvesting machines. The chambers are constructed from precast concrete. The excess power during peak energy harvesting is used to pump water from the subsea structure to store potential energy. Power is generated during periods of low energy harvesting as water is allowed backdrive the pumps as it flows into the subsea structure.
1) Combines energy harvesting and energy storage mechanisms 2) Not specific to any one type of energy harvester