Heidelberg Materials is making history with its Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) project in Edmonton, Alberta — the world’s first large-scale CCUS-equipped cement plant aiming for net-zero emissions. Once operational by the end of 2026, the project will cut CO₂ emissions by up to 95%, capturing over one million tons of CO₂ annually — the equivalent of removing 220,000 cars from the road.
Backed by C$275 million in funding from the Government of Canada, the project also includes the renovation of “green” cement storage silos to align with the country’s “Roadmap to Net-Zero Carbon Concrete by 2050.”
Sarens, global leader in heavy lifting and engineered transport, plays a key role in the project, working on behalf of PCL Construction. Sarens has deployed a GMK 5150 with swing-away jibs, an LTM 1070, and a Hoeflon C10 spider crane to lift formwork, rebar, and concrete at heights over 215 feet, with loads exceeding 7,000 lbs. The spider crane was small enough to operate inside the silos.
According to Sarens Canada Country Manager Jeff Chernish, “This project not only supports environmental goals but also strengthens Alberta’s economy and construction sector.”
The initiative is expected to create over 1,900 full-time jobs, positioning Edmonton as a global hub for low-carbon cement innovation. Heidelberg’s Edmonton facility is set to become a benchmark for sustainable cement production, while Sarens continues to reinforce its leadership in Canada’s construction and infrastructure landscape.
