Port of Los Angeles Converts Oil Tanks to Wave Energy Generators
The Port of Los Angeles has repurposed former oil tank sites to host wave energy generators, marking a major step in renewable energy innovation as of September 9, 2025.
The Port of Los Angeles has taken a significant leap toward sustainable energy by converting disused oil tank sites into wave energy generation facilities, with the official launch occurring on September 9, 2025. This initiative, led by Eco Wave Power in partnership with AltaSea, marks the first commercial wave energy project in the United States, transforming a symbol of fossil fuel infrastructure into a beacon of renewable innovation.
From Oil Tanks to Wave Power
The project is situated on an unused wharf at the port, previously home to oil storage tanks. Now, the site features rows of blue floats that bob with the movement of the waves, harnessing kinetic energy to generate electricity. According to local reports, the installation is designed to demonstrate the viability of wave energy in urban coastal environments, with the floats converting the up-and-down motion of the ocean into usable power for the grid. The transformation of the site is seen as both a practical and symbolic shift away from fossil fuels toward clean energy sources.
Technical Collaboration and Community Impact
The development was made possible through collaboration between Eco Wave Power, AltaSea, and research partners such as the Idaho National Laboratory. The laboratory provided technical expertise to ensure the system's reliability and efficiency, while local authorities facilitated the permitting and regulatory process. Community leaders in San Pedro have expressed optimism about the project, highlighting its potential to create green jobs and serve as a model for other ports nationwide. The installation is also expected to contribute to California’s ambitious renewable energy targets.
International Attention and Future Prospects
The launch has attracted international interest, with energy experts noting the significance of the U.S. entering the wave energy sector. While wave energy technology has been piloted in Europe and Asia, the Port of Los Angeles project is the first of its kind in the United States, potentially paving the way for broader adoption. Observers from global outlets have pointed out that the project could help diversify the renewable energy mix and reduce dependence on intermittent sources like solar and wind.
Despite the enthusiasm, some experts caution that wave energy remains in its early stages, with challenges related to cost, maintenance, and integration into existing grids. However, the successful conversion of oil tank sites into wave energy generators is widely regarded as a promising step toward a more sustainable energy future.