Sir Robert McAlpine reduce emissions by 85%

The solution
HVO hybrid system to reduce generator run-time
The result
Savings of 85% emissions and fuel
The challenge
Greener power for tower cranes

Client:Sir Robert McAlpine

Location:Europe

Sectors:Construction

The challenge

Providing greener energy to power tower cranes

In our 2021 study, conducted at Sir Robert McAlpine’s Kettering plant, we determined where savings could be made to reduce energy use and emissions during construction. From these tests, we proposed the use of smaller generators through rightsizing, adding Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and more sustainable fuels.

4 weekduration

147 ATower crane

125 kVAGenerator

90 kVABattery

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The solution

A HVO powered hybrid system to reduce generator runtime

From October 2022 to January 2023, Sir Robert McAlpine’s tower cranes were powered by HVO-fuelled generators and BESS solutions. These work in synergy; the batteries operate the crane with generators, only running at time of peak load or to charge the batteries.

Our Sector Sales Manager has been a key stakeholder since the initial trials. They commented: “The typical nature of power consumption on construction sites means peaks and troughs are common. However, this also means generators are often oversized due to the misconception of incorporating greater power to meet start-up demand. In addition to adding a BESS solution, it was also crucial to select power solutions that would optimise energy usage through rightsizing.”

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The result

Savings of 85% in both emissions and fuel – up to 93% on one individual crane

Overall, estimated total efficiencies across the five tower cranes equalled over 234 tonnes of emissions and over 87,300 litres in fuel – equivalent to an 85% reduction in consumption. These savings demonstrate a clear roadmap forward for a sector looking to decarbonise. “We have been working closely with Aggreko for a while now as part of our shared goals to deliver long-term emissions and energy reductions on our projects. The fact that we’ve now realised an 85% reduction in fuel and emissions across multiple live cranes is fantastic news.”

“This evidence-based approach gave our business the confidence to invest in new technologies, which has clearly paid dividends in reducing our emissions and fuel consumption. As can be seen here, close working relationships across the supply chain are key to implementing more sustainable practices, and we look forward to working more with Aggreko in the future.”
Martin Mitchell, Plant Procurement Manager at Sir Robert McAlpine