“Green Energy” isn’t a new concept although perhaps “Blue Energy” is a more accurate term. Back in the early 1900s several piers in SoCal tried to use “wave energy” to generate electricity and it worked—to an extent. However, sooner or later all failed for one reason or another. This picture from 1910 shows the original Imperial Beach Pier that was constructed in 1909. Out at the end of the pier was the “Edwards Wave Motor” whose massive machinery, using wave action, was expected to generate electricity for the new town of Imperial Beach. Unfortunately the wave motor never quite met expectations and it was eventually disassembled and removed. For many years the pier itself would continue to be used by anglers but eventually it deteriorated and was washed out to sea during a large storm in 1948. Afterward, locals (especially anglers) called for the construction of a new pier and in time a new pier would be built and open (1963).
A 1910 picture showing the pier and the "Wave Action" machine out at the end of the pier.
Anglers fishing from the pier in 1920.
Two yellowtail caught from the pier in 1928.
Anglers fishing from the pier in 1920.
Two yellowtail caught from the pier in 1928.
It only took 50+ years to build a fishing pier.