Hi,
I think you must try to use power mosfets or transistors at the output terminal of 5v regulator (7805) that will definitely increase the current capacity from 1Amp to may be 50-75 Amps it depends on the component you choose place the transistor in series pass mode with the regulator with appropriate heat sink.Though this is not a total solution to your prob but you can make different modules to power
the beast this time 9 modules :-) for the project but cheaper one .
you should post your message to some Analog Electronics forum for exact solution.

sanjeev