A kinetic fluid energy conversion system comprises one or more hubs (120) which rotate about a central hub carrier, each including one or more independently controlled articulating energy conversion plates ("ECP"). An articulation control system rotates each ECP (10) independently of all others to control its orientation with respect to the fluid flow direction between an orientation of 90° perpendicular to the fluid flow, while traveling in the direction of the flow and 0° minimal drag parallel position to the flow, while traveling in the direction against the flow or blocked from it. Each hub (120) can be operably coupled to another hub to form one or more counter- rotating hub and ECP assemblies whereby the mechanical energy is transferred through the hubs, to one or more clutch/gearbox/ generator/pump assemblies thereby permitting such assemblies to be land-based when the system is air-powered, and above or near the surface, when the system is water-powered.
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