Emission-Free Construction – It’s Possible, But Do We Really Want It?

Oss, 12 December 2024

Koos Spierings, CEO of Spierings Mobile Cranes, reflects on a successful year in which his company has made significant strides towards a more sustainable future. Spierings’ hybrid cranes, equipped with batteries and designed for electric operation, have gained popularity across Europe. However, despite technological advancements, the fundamental question surrounding electric cranes remains: is the construction industry ready to fully embrace emission-free construction?

Limited Progress in the Construction Sector: CO₂ Reduction Lags Behind
The construction sector has made little progress in CO₂ reduction since 1990. Electrification of construction equipment is essential to drive change. According to recent research by ING into the carbon footprint of construction companies, only one-third of construction and installation firms have set concrete sustainability goals aligned with the climate targets for 2030. Further reduction is crucial. Spierings Mobile Cranes is leading the way as a pioneer, but it is vital for other suppliers to follow this trend.

A Bold Step: Focus on Hybrid and Electric Cranes
In 2023, Spierings made the bold decision to produce only hybrid cranes. These innovative eLift cranes can operate electrically throughout the day with just a 16-ampere construction power connection. “If a circular saw works on a construction site, so can our cranes,” says Koos Spierings. The results speak for themselves: in 2024, Spierings’ eLift cranes collectively saved over 5000 tons of CO₂.

The Reality: Electrification of Construction Sites Falls Behind
Despite technological advancements, implementation is lagging. Spierings has observed a slow uptake in demand for electric cranes. “In the Netherlands, over 130 of our electric cranes are ready to work emission-free every day. Yet, less than 10% of these cranes are rented out for electric operation,” notes Koos Spierings. The entire construction chain seems unprepared to adopt the available solutions. “Media often claim that large cranes cannot operate electrically, which is unfortunate because our cranes can. While demand for electric operation remains low, many of our electric cranes are fortunately being utilized with a minimal 16-ampere construction power connection.”

Herald Wattenberg, Commercial Director at Spierings, echoes these concerns. “Our customers, mostly crane rental companies, report that construction projects requiring full electric operation are still rare. This presents a significant challenge for the industry. However, we are ready to take the next step with our clients. In 2025, we aim to truly accelerate electric adoption – figuratively speaking, of course,” he says with a smile.

The Future: Emission-Free Construction as the New Standard
With a market share exceeding 30% in the mobile crane market, Spierings is a well-established name in the Netherlands. Its cranes are manufactured entirely in the Netherlands, further enhancing its sustainable profile. And how much more sustainable can it get? Cranes that enable emission-free construction and are entirely Dutch-made.

“We believe that emission-free construction is not only possible but necessary,” states Koos Spierings. “The technology is here. Now we need to change the mindset together.” The company is targeting 2025 as the year when emission-free construction becomes the norm. Spierings Mobile Cranes is determined to bring this vision to life in collaboration with the sector.