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NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 26, 2026Miami-Dade

Trump administration approves opening of PacWave South ocean energy testing site in Oregon

The federal government has authorized the opening of PacWave South, the first grid-connected facility in the continental U.S. for testing wave energy technology. The site allows developers to test power-generating devices in the open ocean without needing to secure individual permits for each project.

energyrenewable energyinfrastructuremarine energyfederal policy
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Why It Matters

This facility provides a pre-permitted testing ground for marine energy developers, potentially accelerating the commercialization of technology that federal officials suggest could support national security and grid resiliency.

Key Facts

  • The Department of Energy approved the opening of PacWave South, the first grid-connected wave energy test site in the continental U.S.
  • The facility is 'pre-permitted,' allowing developers to test devices without obtaining individual permits.
  • The Department of Energy has invested nearly $150 million in the site's construction and siting since 2016.
  • The facility is currently connected to the local grid but has not yet generated electricity due to developer funding delays.
  • The site supports testing for three types of converters: point absorbers, oscillating water columns, and attenuators.
  • The administration characterizes wave energy as a national security asset, unlike offshore wind, which it has moved to block.
  • Marine energy has the theoretical potential to power 57% of U.S. electrical needs according to federal estimates.
  • The facility was developed by Oregon State University.

Who's Mentioned

locationPacWave South“Wave energy testing site off the coast of Oregon”personDan Hellin“Director of PacWave”organizationOregon State University“Developer of the test facility”personDonald Trump“President of the United States”