Abstract: An energy generating system is provided, comprising a primary waterwheel for receiving water from a head penstock or upper pumping setup, the primary waterwheel comprising a plurality of radial arms rotatable about a primary axis, the radial arms terminating in water scoops for accommodating the water from the head penstock or upper pumping setup, the primary waterwheel defining head height. The system further comprises at least one additional waterwheel located within the head height of the primary waterwheel, the additional waterwheel also comprising a plurality of radial arms rotatable about an axis, the radial arms terminating in water scoops for accommodating either excess water from the head penstock or upper pumping setup or water that has spilled out of the water scoops of the primary waterwheel. In an example embodiment, the primary waterwheel and the at least one additional waterwheel are vertically orientated.