Wave Energy Pilot Project Advances with Installation of Energy Conversion Unit in Port of Los Angeles

Wave energy developer Eco Wave Power has reached a significant milestone by installing its energy conversion unit (ECU) at the Port of Los Angeles, marking the progress of its first U.S. wave energy pilot towards initial operational testing.

The ECU, which is the core component of Eco Wave Power’s patented onshore system, is responsible for converting the motion of ocean waves into electricity through hydraulic cylinders.

“The placement of our energy conversion unit is more than just a technical milestone—it represents the moment our project transitions from construction to the pre-operation stage,” said Inna Braverman, Founder and CEO of Eco Wave Power.

“With the ECU on-site, we are now preparing for the first testing phase of our U.S. pilot and showcasing a path toward practical wave energy adoption in America.”

The Los Angeles pilot project serves multiple purposes, including supporting environmental monitoring and regulatory processes, acting as an educational and showcase platform, and laying the foundation for future larger-scale, grid-connected deployments.

Notably, the onshore system is modular, requires no seabed drilling, and is designed to minimize environmental impact.

Local contractors, such as C&S Welding and All-Ways Metal, are actively involved in the construction process. All-Ways Metal fabricated the floaters, which were successfully installed in late July 2025.

Following the installation of the ECU, the final hydraulic and electrical works are set to be completed in preparation for the project’s unveiling on September 9, 2025, at AltaSea. The event will be supported by Shell’s Marine Renewable Program and is expected to attract U.S. and California officials, industry stakeholders, and international media.

In April, Eco Wave Power signed a manufacturing agreement with All-Ways Metal to produce floaters for its first U.S. wave energy installation at the Port of Los Angeles. This agreement came after obtaining key regulatory clearances, including a final license from the Port of Los Angeles and a federal permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

On July 29, Eco Wave Power achieved another milestone by completing the installation of floaters for its first U.S. wave energy project at the Port of Los Angeles, setting the stage for the scheduled unveiling on September 9, 2025.