The TEAMER program, established in 2019 and administered by the nonprofit Pacific Ocean Energy Trust, connects marine energy technology developers and researchers with U.S. facilities and technical expertise. Its mission is to accelerate the commercialization of wave and tidal energy technologies, harnessing the largely untapped potential of ocean power. While most of TEAMER’s nearly 50 facilities offer laboratory and computational resources, the Cal Poly Pier stands out by providing rare, shore-based open-water access through its 3,000-foot marine research station.
Ben Ruttenberg, director of Cal Poly’s Center for Coastal Marine Sciences, stated:
“The Cal Poly Pier is set up extremely well to test equipment from an easily accessible, shore-based facility without the expense and complications of chartering vessels. Organizations will be able to design their wave energy or other devices and test them easily. The pier is the perfect launching spot for that important research and development work.”
This strategic designation comes at a critical juncture for the U.S. wave energy sector. Despite promising pilot projects and testing sites across the country, wave energy remains in a nascent phase compared to other renewables. According to industry data, the U.S. has yet to unlock the full commercial potential of wave energy, which could ultimately provide sustainable power to remote communities and bolster grid resilience.
As a secured and drivable harbor facility, the Cal Poly Pier offers unique capabilities to deploy and test wave energy devices, autonomous vehicles, sensors, and additional marine technologies under real ocean conditions. Cal Poly faculty and students will have direct access to support operations, providing valuable hands-on experience and collaboration opportunities for the next generation of clean energy professionals.
TEAMER’s support structure includes funding allocations to approved applicants, further lowering barriers to entry for startups and research groups developing cutting-edge marine energy technologies. To date, the program has conducted 15 rounds of funding calls, with two more scheduled for 2025: June 6 and October 3.
The collaboration potential is expansive. Cal Poly expects to attract partnerships from private technology companies, national laboratories, and federal agencies including the U.S. Navy. All deployments will adhere strictly to federal, state, and local permitting standards.
Dean Wendt, dean of Cal Poly’s Bailey College of Science and Mathematics, emphasized the broader significance of this development:
“Innovative technologies that can provide important, sustainable energy solutions will help provide needed infrastructure long into the future. The university’s marine science infrastructure is proud to play a role in supporting this invaluable research and development.”
The World Bank defines the blue economy as the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving ocean ecosystem health. The Cal Poly Pier’s new role within TEAMER directly supports this vision, positioning California’s Central Coast at the forefront of the emerging marine energy sector and the broader transition toward clean, sustainable energy systems.
