Norway’s largest offshore supply base, Saga Fjordbase, is strengthening its sustainability drive with the purchase of a fully electric Liebherr LHM 280 mobile harbour crane, scheduled for delivery in early 2026. The new crane, ordered in April, marks a strategic investment in emissions reduction, energy optimisation, and high-performance cargo handling. As part of its broader port electrification strategy, Saga Fjordbase has chosen the LHM 280 for its compatibility with electric grid infrastructure and its suitability for the demanding conditions of offshore supply logistics on Norway’s west coast.
Designed by Liebherr for electric operation, the LHM 280 at Saga Fjordbase includes an 84-tonne winch, 48-metre outreach, a weather-protected staircase for operator safety, and an integrated reactive power compensation unit. These features not only enhance crane performance but also minimise energy losses and reduce strain on the local grid – a crucial advantage in a port that sees approximately 2,000 vessel calls each year.
‘The LHM 280 is a strategic addition to our port,’ said Dag Eikeland, VP Logistics at Saga Fjordbase. ‘Its electric drive and energy optimisation features directly support our efforts to reduce emissions and improve quay turnaround times. These are key factors in maintaining our position as a leading offshore logistics hub.’
Electrification is no longer a fringe concept in port operations. As ports across Scandinavia and Europe look to align infrastructure investments with climate targets, equipment like the LHM 280 is gaining ground. Its electric configuration directly supports Saga Fjordbase’s long-term decarbonisation roadmap while offering precision handling for a wide range of cargo.
The crane’s reactive power compensation unit is particularly notable. This technology balances voltage levels by supplying or absorbing reactive power, improving energy efficiency and protecting the stability of the local grid. For a port that operates year-round in weather that ranges from mild to extreme, this offers both reliability and long-term operational foresight.
Andreas Ritschel, General Manager Sales Mobile Harbour Cranes at Liebherr-Rostock GmbH, highlighted the collaboration: ‘This delivery reflects a shared understanding of what’s needed in today’s port operations. We’ve worked closely with Saga Fjordbase to deliver a solution that fits their goals technically and operationally.’
The crane was configured specifically for Saga Fjordbase’s needs, incorporating features that align with the port’s throughput levels and environmental goals. It will be used primarily to support supply chain operations for offshore platforms, a sector where timing, safety, and reliability are essential. The rotator feature enhances lifting flexibility for non-standard cargo shapes and sizes.
Saga Fjordbase has already made measurable efficiency gains through digitalisation. The implementation of its custom logistics platform, Saga Connect, has cut average quay turnaround time by 30%. The arrival of the LHM 280 is expected to complement these digital gains by further improving physical cargo handling capabilities.
The collaboration between Saga Fjordbase and Liebherr is part of a broader initiative to modernise port infrastructure in Florø. As one of Scandinavia’s most expansive logistics hubs for offshore energy, the port is under constant pressure to remain resilient and competitive. The LHM 280 is expected to serve as a flexible asset supporting day-to-day operations and the broader push toward green maritime logistics.
This delivery aligns with Norway’s national goals for emissions reduction and energy transition within the maritime sector.
