Mammoet’s SK6000, the world’s most powerful land-based crane, has successfully completed testing for fully electric operations, marking a milestone in zero-emission technology for heavy lifting. This breakthrough enables emissions-free operations for projects in even the remotest locations, further advancing sustainability in large-scale construction and infrastructure projects.
With its new zero-emission functionality, the SK6000 reinforces Mammoet’s commitment to reducing the environmental impact of major projects. The electric operation significantly lowers noise levels, improving the working environment and communication on-site while enhancing safety and sustainability.
The crane is now capable of running directly from grid power. For sites without access to a stable power network, it can operate using batteries or hydrogen generators, ensuring flexibility and reliability in any location.
The testing utilized two 600kWh Battery Boxes from power supply specialist Bredenoord, connected to deliver 1,200kWh—equivalent to the output of 20 electric cars. The connection process, completed within a single day shift, demonstrated minimal disruption to site operations. Battery packs for the SK6000 are designed for ease of transport, housed in standard 20ft shipping containers, allowing for rapid mobilization between project sites.
Niek Bezuijen, Mammoet’s Global Sustainability Advisor, highlighted the importance of this innovation: “Thanks to this test, we can now confirm the SK6000 operates fully zero-emissions on-site. Electrification isn’t a matter for the future of heavy lifting—it’s essential now. Innovations like this allow Mammoet to help its customers lead on safety, efficiency, sustainability, and cost.”
The SK6000’s versatility extends to its power sources. Medium voltage networks, commonly available in heavy industry, can power the crane directly. At ports, existing shore power connections can be utilized. For remote sites without infrastructure, hydrogen generators provide an alternative, while battery systems can recharge during operational pauses, ensuring uninterrupted functionality.
With SK6000 electric functionality confirmed, Mammoet can now offer a fully zero-emission, low noise marshalling service to customers in the offshore wind sector. Oil and gas projects benefit from complete elimination of carbon impact during the heaviest lifting scopes, at the same time as realizing the largest possible economies of scale from modular construction methodologies. In the nuclear sector, reduced noise levels will enhance safety levels at complex new build sites while allowing projects to deliver low-carbon energy in a sustainable way.
The project received partial funding from the Subsidieregeling Schoon en Emissieloos Bouwmaterieel, a Netherlands-based initiative promoting zero-emission construction equipment.
With the SK6000 now capable of fully electric operation, Mammoet is setting new standards for sustainable, efficient, and safe heavy lifting, paving the way for a cleaner future in global construction and infrastructure.
