Europea Servizi Terminalistici (EST), a part of the Italian Shipping & Logistics Agency (ISLA), has placed an order for a Konecranes Gottwald ESP.8 mobile harbour crane featuring a hybrid drive system.
The latest order is intended to support operations at the expanding Port of Augusta in Sicily. The order was finalised in the first quarter of 2025, with the crane scheduled for delivery and installation by the end of the summer.
EST has recently been awarded a 25-year concession to manage the new container terminal at Augusta, which holds the distinction of being the largest port in Sicily by cargo volume. In line with its productivity and sustainability objectives for the terminal, EST has chosen to invest in the hybrid drive crane, which boasts a lifting capacity of 150 tonnes.
The crane includes a 5.3m tower extension and 65-tonne twin-lift spreaders, enhancing EST’s ability to handle containers and heavy cargo, such as wind energy components.
It will also incorporate Konecranes’ predictive services, which employ TRUCONNECT monitoring and a maintenance system based on condition to manage key crane components.
The hybrid drive system combines a diesel engine with two ultracapacitors, aiming to lower fuel usage and emissions. The crane is also designed to connect to an external power supply, enabling full electrification and eliminating onsite emissions once the necessary infrastructure is in place at the Port of Augusta.
Previously, EST operated a Konecranes Gottwald Generation 5 mobile harbour crane, which has been transferred from the Port of Catania to the new terminal in Augusta.
The latest investment in Konecranes Gottwald mobile harbour cranes reflects the ongoing trust and cooperation between EST and Konecranes.
Earlier this week, PNCT in the US placed an order for 15 additional Hybrid Konecranes Noell Straddle Carriers.
