Ørsted continue to support the Clacton RNLI volunteers in saving lives at sea

The operators of the Gunfleet Sands windfarm (four miles south of Clacton Pier) will continue to support Clacton RNLI to save lives at sea for a further three years, along with six other lifeboat stations close to their other sites operated around the UK coastline.

The global leader in offshore wind power will make a contribution of more than £200,000 split between theseven stations, funding the running costs of the lifeboats at each location.

Since Ørsted started their collaboration with the RNLI in 2015 their funding has resulted in nearly 600 launches, resulting in 580 people being helped.

At Clacton this support has gone beyond the financial to involve practical real-life rescue scenarios from the turbines alongside Ørsted’s own technicians, resulting in a good understanding of each other’s operating capabilities and procedures. This working knowledge results in a safer environment for both teams and a faster extraction for any casualty.

Matthew Wright, managing director at Ørsted UK, said:

‘We’re extremely proud to continue our partnership with the RNLI for another three years and help this amazing charity save lives at sea. As a company building major offshore wind projects to be the backbone of the UK’s future energy system, we understand the challenges faced by RNLI crews working out at sea, and we want to help these lifeboat stations continue operating safely and efficiently. Ørsted is hugely committed to making a positive impact in the communities where we operate, which is why supporting the vital service provided by the RNLI makes so much sense to us.’

Dave Wells, Lifeboat Operations Manager for Clacton RNLI was keen to point out that there was a goodongoing relationship between Ørsted (formally DONG Energy) and the RNLI in its financial support for six stations, which has now been extended to seven,which Clacton is one. As part of this financial support for Clacton they pay the annual fuel bill of the station’s two lifeboats.

Mr Wells went on to say: ’The extra practical support in the form of real world exercises for Clacton’s volunteer crew is invaluable to equip them with the skills needed to undertake rescues effectively and safely. This year alone they have saved three lives thanks to the support of organisations such as Ørsted, and that of the wider community.’

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.