Eco Wave Power, a wave energy developer, has secured Revocable Permit 25-05 from the Port of Los Angeles to build and test its wave energy technology at Berth 70 in San Pedro, California. The permit, approved on March 27, 2025, by Executive Director Eugene D. Seroka, marks a key milestone for the company’s U.S. expansion. This follows a federal permit granted in November 2024 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, clearing the way for the project’s progress.

Inna Braverman, Terry Tamminen, and Arnold Schwarzenegger in a visit to Eco Wave Power's pilot in LA.

The pilot, supported by Shell Marine Renewable Energy and developed with AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles, involves installing up to eight wave energy floaters on an existing concrete wharf at Municipal Pier One. An energy conversion unit, housed in two 20-foot shipping containers, will sit on the wharf deck and connect to the floaters. The unit is already on-site, with installation expected to wrap up by the end of June 2025, within 2-3 months from the permit’s approval.

Inna Braverman, CEO of Eco Wave Power, stated: “This permit represents a major step forward for Eco Wave Power’s expansion into the U.S. market.” She expressed enthusiasm about working with the Port of Los Angeles, AltaSea, and Shell to introduce sustainable energy solutions to a major U.S. port. The project covers 10,396 square feet of land and 2,016 square feet of water area, as authorized by the permit.

AltaSea CEO Terry Tamminen said: “At AltaSea, we are dedicated to fostering cutting-edge solutions for the blue economy, and Eco Wave Power’s innovative technology is a prime example of that commitment.” He highlighted the project’s role in proving wave energy’s potential in the U.S. The U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory suggests wave energy could produce over 1,400 terawatt-hours yearly, enough to power around 130 million homes. This pilot aims to showcase its reliability as a renewable energy option.

Eco Wave Power’s efforts build on prior work, including a three-month study to pinpoint ideal U.S. coastal sites for wave energy stations. In September 2024, the Port of Los Angeles approved the project’s engineering plans, developed with Shell. Recently, the company also welcomed Hilary E. Ackermann from Vistra Energy’s board to its advisory team, strengthening its expertise. With all approvals in place, Eco Wave Power is poised to demonstrate wave energy’s practical value, potentially setting the stage for broader adoption across the United States.