A multilayered submersible structure has an outer coating (40) that is disposed in contact with water in which the structure (14) is submerged, a current distribution layer or charge distribution layer (50), an electrical conductor (26, 28) connectable in electrical communication to a source of electrical power (20), and a support structure. By selectively energizing the current distribution layer, or charge distribution layer, chemical and ionic changes can be caused in the water immediately adjacent the outer coating or layer to inhibit the growth of marine organisms on the outer surface of the submersible structure.