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A catastrophic carbon dioxide leak at the Hailong Offshore Wind Power facility resulted in 17 people being poisoned and urgently transported to a nearby hospital, officials confirmed on 20th August. The incident, which occurred during routine maintenance, has raised serious concerns about safety protocols at the site, one of the region’s most significant renewable energy projects.
The leak was first detected in the early hours on Tuesday when workers reported difficulty breathing and dizziness. Emergency services were quickly dispatched to the scene, and the affected individuals were evacuated and rushed to the hospital for treatment. According to medical sources, all 17 workers are in stable condition but remain under close observation.
Hailong Offshore Wind Power, a subsidiary of Northland Power, issued a statement expressing deep regret over the incident. “Safety is the core value of our operations,” the company emphasized, adding that a full investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the leak. “We are committed to ensuring that such an incident does not happen again,” the statement continued, promising a thorough review of safety procedures and immediate corrective measures.
The CO2 leak has triggered widespread scrutiny, particularly as offshore wind power is often championed as a safe and environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels. While the incident has not led to any fatalities, it has highlighted potential risks associated with the maintenance and operation of large-scale renewable energy facilities.
Local authorities have confirmed that a joint investigation with Hailong will be conducted to identify any lapses in safety standards. The findings of this inquiry are expected to be made public, with potential implications for the broader offshore wind industry.
As Hailong Offshore Wind Power works to restore its reputation, industry experts stress that maintaining rigorous safety standards is crucial to the long-term success and public trust in renewable energy.