An energy conversion apparatus and method for the transfer and utilization of kinetic energy received by one or more natural kinetic energy receptors from one or more "natural kinetic energy source" such as for example solar energy, wind energy, water currents and tides, geothermal energy and the like, for powering one or more electricity generating devices. The "natural kinetic energy" is converted into fluid pressure by "receptor(s)" coupled with hydraulic fluid pressure pump(s). Back flow of fluid is prevented from flowing through the non-operating fluid pumps by check valve(s). The fluid pressure is used to operate one or more fluid pressure motors coupled with electricity generating unit(s). When first and second fluid pressure motors are used, means is provided for directing all of the fluid under pressure through the first pressure motor until it is operating at a desired speed before fluid pressure is permitted to operate the second pressure motor. A valving system permits flow between one unidirectional conduit and a second unidirectional conduit through two bridging conduits so that a bi-directional pump may be used between them.