Sited 10 miles (16km) out to sea off Hayle, the hub - which would collect energy from wave turbines - could generate electricity for 14,000 homes.

It should deliver electricity to the national grid by 2009.

It is hoped the project could generate £330m for the regional economy over 25 years.

We look forward to using the same energy we've used to ride waves to light up our homes as well Andy Cummins, Surfers Against Sewage

The official consent announcement will be made on Monday by John Hutton, Secretary of State for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform.

The Wave Hub - a seafloor "socket", will connect wave energy machines to the mainland.

The proposed power station will involve up to 20 sets of machines, with pumps, pistons and turbines, about 10 miles (16km) out to sea off St Ives Bay, generating electricity for 14,000 homes.

There was some objection to the scheme among surfers who were worried the farm would reduce wave height on the beaches.