Manitowoc Crawler Cranes Boost Wind Energy Expansion in Maine

Sprague Energy, in collaboration with Manitowoc and local dealer Shawmut Equipment, is spearheading a major renewable energy project at Mack Point terminal in Searsport, Maine. Utilizing a fleet of five Manitowoc crawler cranes, Sprague is receiving and staging massive wind turbine components for transport to wind farms across the state.

The cranes, including three Manitowoc MLC150s, one MLC250 and one MLC300 VPC-MAXTM, are executing up to 30 lifts per day, moving loads as heavy as 101 USt. This effort is part of Maine’s expanding wind energy infrastructure, set to power more than 62,000 homes and significantly reduce CO2 emissions.

“Our Manitowoc cranes work together to lift the windmill’s tower sections, blades, hubs, drives and nacelles,” Cameron Giroux, terminal supervisor at Sprague Energy, explained. “Due to the significant distance between pick points on the turbine blades, we are fortunate to be able to execute two-crane lifts. We rig the components with slings, shackles and hooks, and use a block and tackle at one end to maintain even pressure and prevent twisting of the blades. After that, we use the cranes to stage loads for the next phase.”

This precise and complex operation highlights Manitowoc’s advanced Crane Control System (CCS), which enhances efficiency and safety during these intricate lifts.

“Manitowoc’s CCS system is designed to improve operator efficiency and accuracy by offering intuitive controls and advanced diagnostics,” Brennan Seeliger, Manitowoc’s product manager for crawler cranes, said. “Its user-friendly interface enables efficient operation, reducing the learning curve for operators. Users can harness the precise load monitoring, customizable configurations and automated functions of CCS that enhance job site productivity and reduce the risk of errors. This makes it an invaluable tool for experienced and new crane operators alike.”

The project is scheduled to conclude next month, marking a significant contribution to the state’s renewable energy goals.

This wind energy expansion in Maine is part of the state’s broader commitment to transitioning to renewable energy. By 2030, Maine aims to have 80% of its electricity come from renewable sources, making projects like this one essential to achieving those goals.

With Manitowoc's cranes playing a pivotal role, Sprague Energy and Shawmut Equipment are helping Maine build a greener future.