The ocean plays host to a vast array of sources of energy. These energies simply need to be developed efficiently and effectively, as well as harmonized and collected. This paper will present and discuss two major sources of sustainable ocean energy-wind and wave-which can be combined effectively into one multi-purpose structure. These dynamic structures are emerging as useful in many international settings. However, the United States' (U.S.) areas are slow to adopt. This research presents a hierarchical analysis for decision makers to utilize in strategic offshore location planning with regard to these platforms. Surprisingly, the Gulf of Mexico (GOM) proves to be in a favorable position for entities considering use of such multi-purpose platforms. (c) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.