The Naval Facilities Engineering and Expeditionary Warfare Center (NAVFAC EXWC) manages the Wave Energy Test Site (WETS). Established in 2004, WETS is located off the coast of Marine Corps Base Hawaii, on the island of Oahu. WETS provides developers a critical real-world environment for testing and advancing marine energy systems.
The site offers three test berths at depths of 30, 60, and 80 meters, each equipped with moorings and subsea power and data cables connected to the Hawaiian electrical grid. This allows developers to assess performance
and grid integration of their technologies.
WETS supports Navy and DoD energy goals, aligning with Naval S&T and CNO Navigation Plan priorities. A key element of NAVFAC's innovation strategy, it advances expeditionary capabilities and technological superiority. WETS is accelerating marine energy commercialization through public-private partnerships, ultimately enhancing naval energy security and strategic deterrence.