A massive £4.5m investment by Port Services Group will result in the delivery in the next few weeks of the largest mobile crane ever to be based in Scotland that will have significant applications for the renewable energy sector.

The new 1,000 tonne class Terex-Demag TC2800-1 will provide a major boost to Port Services’ heavy crane division and will reinforce its position as a major UK player in heavy lifting services.

Although primarily aimed at servicing its core business in the oil and gas industries, Port Services believes the new crane will provide major benefits for its growing customer base in the renewable energy sector. Cranes of this capacity are ideal for wind turbine installation operations, and also for construction projects in the emerging wave and tidal power industries.  

Steve Clark, Port Services managing director, said: “This crane offers huge potential for us to diversify and effectively serve the heavy lifting requirements of a number of different industry sectors, including renewables.

“We believe there will be large demand for a crane of this capacity, which can be deployed at short-notice anywhere throughout the UK.

“The large reach and lifting capacity of this new crane will prove a major asset and will greatly enhance the scope of our operational capabilities and ensure a cost effective and efficient service to customers.”

The new crane is the largest in the range built by specialist German crane manufacturer Demag, who are one of the world’s leading suppliers of industrial cranes. The TC2800-1 crane offers enhanced operational flexibility that will ensure considerable time and cost savings during heavy lifting operations. A major advantage is the large outrigger base, which provides excellent lifting capacities and maximum boom length.

The crane will be based at Port Services’ support base in Aberdeen and will be on 24-hour standby for work throughout the UK.