First U.S. Onshore Wave Energy Project Receives Green Light

In 2022, Eco Wave Energy (EWP) announced its ambitious plan to relocate its wave energy array from Gibraltar to the Port of Los Angeles. Now, after significant preparation and collaboration, the company has received final approval to establish the first onshore wave energy project in the US.

Wave Energy Technology Makes Waves in the US

EWP’s innovative technology works by mounting floaters on coastal infrastructure, which harness the motion of waves to drive hydraulic pistons that generate electricity through a generator.

After proving the concept in 2012 and successfully operating a grid-connected pilot in Gibraltar for nearly six years, the company took steps to transition the project to the US. Unused components were recycled, while the energy conversion unit was overhauled and updated to meet US standards. By late 2022, the upgraded unit had arrived at AltaSea’s campus in the Port of LA, a key hub for climate and energy innovation.

EWP Expands to the US with Portable Wave Energy Technology and Key Partnerships

CEO Inna Braverman highlighted the portability of their technology, calling the US expansion “just the start.” In 2023, EWP launched a US subsidiary and began securing approvals.

Following a feasibility study, EWP partnered with Shell to pilot the installation. Now approved by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the project will feature eight floaters on Municipal Pier One and an energy conversion unit housed in shipping containers.

Installation is slated for completion by the first quarter of next year, with potential expansion to 77 additional US sites identified by EWP.

Read Original Article: New Atlas

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