Sarens is supporting efforts by Florida Power & Light to strengthen the resilience of Florida’s power grid against extreme weather events. The project forms part of a broader initiative to improve the reliability of electrical infrastructure in a region frequently affected by hurricanes and tropical storms.
As part of the programme, Sarens is responsible for removing existing wooden power poles and transporting and installing new concrete structures designed to withstand stronger wind conditions. The new poles weigh between 6,000 and 42,000 pounds and measure between 40 and 75 feet in height. By replacing wooden poles with concrete or steel alternatives capable of withstanding winds of up to 145 miles per hour, the project aims to reduce storm related power outages.
Sarens was selected for the project due to its experience in engineered lifting and complex logistics. During the planning phase, the company’s engineering team focused on safety requirements specific to the electrical sector as well as material storage and delivery logistics. Cranes with lifting capacities ranging from 65 to 350 tonnes were deployed for the operations, including Grove 3060 all terrain cranes, which allow setup on highway right of way areas while minimising disruption to traffic.
Equipment is transported daily from Sarens’ facility in Medley to various installation locations across the region. Each day, between one and three trucks deliver counterweights and concrete poles to the work sites. Crane assembly typically takes around one hour before lifting operations begin.
Work conditions vary depending on the location, with teams frequently facing challenges such as live power lines, nearby buildings, trees and heavy traffic. Additional considerations include underground infrastructure such as water and gas pipelines as well as operations carried out at night or in changing weather conditions.
The initiative forms part of Florida Power & Light’s broader investment plan, which includes more than 28.85 billion dollars in capital spending between 2025 and 2027 to strengthen grid reliability and introduce smart grid technology. Priority is given to lines serving hospitals, emergency response teams and 911 call centres to ensure critical services remain operational during severe weather events.
