A new chapter in cargo handling is opening at Quebec’s Saguenay Port Authority, with the arrival of its first electric-driven mobile harbor crane from Konecranes. The order, placed in Q1 2025, is scheduled for delivery later this year and marks a strategic step toward greener port operations in northern Quebec.
The Saguenay Port Authority has selected the Konecranes Gottwald ESP.6B Mobile Harbor Crane to support the port’s growing handling capabilities. The crane is part of a broader expansion project aimed at ramping up throughput at the deepwater port, which sits uniquely on North America’s only navigable fjord and is accessible year-round.
Equipped with an electric cable reel at the boom top, the ESP.6B is tailored for flexibility. It includes features like an electric hook rotator and spreaders, offering the ability to manage diverse cargo types—from bulk materials such as de-icing salt and iron ore to containers and general freight. Its 125-tonne maximum lifting capacity aligns with the port’s plan to support varied cargo volumes and vessel sizes, including those up to 100,000 tonnes.
A key factor behind the port authority’s decision was the crane’s ability to run primarily on external electric power. That significantly reduces emissions compared to traditional diesel units, reflecting a growing industry trend toward sustainability.
Carl Laberge, Chief Executive Officer of Saguenay Port Authority, noted that the equipment’s electric capabilities will be instrumental in reducing the port’s environmental footprint. “With the extra handling features we’ve chosen, the crane is a true asset for the planned growth of the port and the world-class industrial port zone, one of the largest in North America,” he said.
This delivery is the first collaboration between Konecranes and the Saguenay Port Authority. For Konecranes, it’s another step under its Ecolifting initiative—designed to amplify its environmental impact through cleaner, more efficient handling solutions.
Andreas Moeller, Senior Sales Manager at Konecranes Port Solutions, said the company’s electric drive system played a crucial role in securing the deal. “We are very happy to have the Saguenay Port Authority on board as we help more and more customers to reduce emissions while maintaining high operational performance,” he said.
With investments in digitalization and sustainability, Konecranes continues to position itself as a forward-looking player in the material handling space. This latest project underscores the growing importance of electrification and modular design in port infrastructure.
