Saguenay Port Orders First Electric Konecranes Mobile Harbor Crane

The Saguenay Port Authority in Quebec has ordered a Konecranes Gottwald ESP.6B Mobile Harbor Crane as part of a new cargo handling system under development. The electric-powered crane is scheduled for delivery in Q3 2025, following an order booked in Q1.

Located on North America’s only navigable fjord, Port Saguenay offers year-round access to north-central Quebec. Its deepwater harbor accommodates vessels up to 100,000 tonnes, and with this new investment, the port aims to expand capacity and improve operational efficiency.

The ESP.6B Mobile Harbor Crane will run primarily on external electric power, helping to reduce emissions compared to diesel alternatives. It features an electric cable reel at the boom top for operating electric hook rotators and spreaders. With a lifting capacity of up to 125 tonnes, the crane is equipped to handle bulk materials like iron ore and de-icing salt, as well as containers and general cargo.

“By enabling the use of electricity, the Konecranes equipment will be instrumental in helping us to reduce our carbon footprint,” said Carl Laberge, Chief Executive Officer at Saguenay Port Authority. “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.”

The project aligns with Konecranes’ broader Ecolifting initiative, which focuses on reducing the carbon footprint of lifting operations through eco-optimized diesel drives, hybrid systems and fully electric fleets.