Marine Rescue Port Hedland's new emergency response base is set to benefit from lower energy costs and improved energy resilience, with Pilbara lithium miner PLS funding a solar and lithium battery energy storage system.
The funding was announced as the volunteer organisation officially opened its new purpose-built facility in Port Hedland on Saturday 18 July.
PLS Chief People and Sustainability Officer Sandra McInnes said the project would help reduce operating costs for an important local volunteer service.
“Marine Rescue Port Hedland provides an essential service in a coastal community where boating is part of everyday life,” Ms McInnes said.
“When emergencies happen, local volunteers are often the first to respond, operating in challenging and unpredictable conditions to help keep our community safe.
“By lowering ongoing energy costs, this project will help Marine Rescue Port Hedland direct more of its resources towards rescue operations, equipment and volunteer support.
“It’s also a practical example of how renewable energy solutions can deliver real benefits at the local level, helping strengthen the resilience of an important emergency service.”
The project will support the installation of a solar and lithium battery energy storage system at Marine Rescue Port Hedland’s new facility, helping improve energy resilience, reduce operating costs and support the long-term sustainability of the volunteer organisation.
Marine Rescue Port Hedland is a volunteer-led emergency service providing critical marine safety and rescue operations across the Pilbara coast. Supported by more than 40 local volunteers, the organisation responds to more than 80 incidents each year in a region where boating is a significant part of community life.
PLS also contributed toward construction of the new facility, alongside support from other industry partners and the local community.
The purpose-built facility replaces Marine Rescue Port Hedland's ageing base and provides a modern operational hub for volunteers delivering emergency response services across the region.
Marine Rescue Port Hedland Commander Zac Slaughter said the renewable energy project would help strengthen the organisation’s long-term resilience and allow more resources to be directed towards frontline rescue services.
“Marine Rescue Port Hedland is proud to partner with PLS on this exciting renewable energy initiative,” Mr Slaughter said.
“As a volunteer emergency service, every dollar saved on operating costs can be reinvested into maintaining our rescue capability, supporting our volunteers and delivering a reliable 24-hour marine rescue service for the Pilbara community.”
“This project is about more than renewable energy – it is an investment in the long-term resilience and sustainability of an essential community service, and we sincerely thank PLS for their vision and support.”
The renewable energy system is expected to be in operation by 31 December 2026, subject to the completion of Marine Rescue Port Hedland’s procurement process.
