The renewable energy industry has recognised the rapid response from those working in Grimsby’s offshore wind cluster to the tragic oil tanker collision in the North Sea.
A special accolade was presented to key figures behind the remarkable rescue operation at the Humber Renewables Awards, with a standing ovation given by the 200-strong audience.
Guests at the annual gala dinner heard how crew transfer vessels dropping technicians at a wind farm were first on the scene following the mayday call, as the high-profile incident unfolded off the East Yorkshire coast on 10 March.
A total of 36 of the 37 sailors were rescued by the Windcat team working on RWE’s Humber Gateway, with the quick-thinking actions of crew seeing them tow lifeboats to safety from burning waters, as spilled aviation fuel burned and the fire on the conjoined vessels intensified.
Skipper Brian Smith, his Windcat fleet manager Dean Login and RWE’s Humber Gateway general manager Nathan Kerins’ efforts were applauded following BBC presenter Phillip Norton’s citation.
Smith was first on the scene on the day of the collision. He said: “As maritime professionals we are expected to act as soon as we see or hear a mayday, and I would expect another vessel to do the same for me. You’ve got to go.
“We were just doing our job, fulfilling our role. They were extraordinary circumstances, there were a lot of dynamic risk assessments taking place, it was a once in a lifetime thing and we dealt with it the best we could. We tried our best to do whatever we could and just save lives.
“The recognition is amazing, I never expected anything like this.”
The lost sailor was also remembered as part of the presentation, which was the finale to trade organisation Humber Marine & Renewables’ Offshore Wind Connections conference and exhibition in Hull.
Earlier, innovation, individual talent and skills development were championed.
Best Renewable Energy project went to Milence for the new eight-bay HGV charging hub at Immingham.
Small Business of the Year went to Specialist Wind Services, which launched last November and is already serving contracts in the USA and Canada.
Renewables in Education went to Orsted, with RWE winning Renewable Skills and Training.
RWE’s Aurelia Pearson also took home Apprentice of the Year, 18 months into her training to become an offshore health and safety advisor, attached to the Triton Knoll farm.
Engaging the Community / Community Project of the Year went to Grimsby Community Energy Ltd, having had successful funding rounds to expand solar provision.
Humber Marine & Renewables’ operations manager Mary Green also had her 17 years of service recognised, with her retirement falling ahead of next year’s awards.