[Job Story] Potain MDT 269 J12 Crane Takes on Precision Lifting as Aosta Valley Hydropower Plant Doubles Its Energy Ambition

A major hydropower upgrade in Italy’s Aosta Valley is putting tower crane logistics at the center of a complex mountain infrastructure job. On the reconstruction of the historic Hone hydroelectric power plant, a Potain MDT 269 J12 topless tower crane is helping contractors manage heavy, precise lifts in a confined high-altitude environment where access, space and handling efficiency are critical.

The project is significant for Italy’s renewable energy infrastructure. The Hone plant has been operating for more than 100 years, and once modernization is complete, its annual energy production is expected to double from 50 GWh to 100 GWh. That increase reflects a broader push across Europe to extend the life and performance of existing hydropower assets, rather than relying only on new-build generation capacity.

The crane was supplied by Italian Potain dealer Fissolo Gru directly to the main contractor, Cogeis, which is leading the works. The scope includes rebuilding the power plant and intake structure, excavating an 8 km tunnel, and installing a new high-capacity penstock.

The Potain MDT 269 is being used mainly for penstock installation. The crane lifts sections from the storage area and transfers them directly to the construction cableway. This setup removes several intermediate handling phases, reducing jobsite movements and improving overall logistics.

That matters on a mountain project where every lift has to be planned around restricted access, limited working space and demanding terrain. In practical terms, the crane is is helping the contractor simplify the flow of materials across the site.

For this application, the 12 t capacity Potain MDT 269 is operating with a 65 m jib and a 50 m hook height. At the end of its 65 m jib, the crane can lift 3.1 t, giving it the reach and load capability required for the penstock sections and associated construction tasks.

The crane is also equipped with Potain’s Crane Control System, which allows rapid configuration in as little as 15 minutes and supports advanced load management. Operators can work from the cab or remotely, while adjustable speed settings help adapt crane movements to the lifting task. The Ultra View cab is designed to improve visibility and comfort, supporting safer and more productive operation during long shifts.

According to Cogeis, the crane’s value lies in how it changes material handling on the project.

“This crane is essential due to its versatility and ability to optimize logistics. By enabling direct handling of penstock sections, it eliminates several intermediate steps and allows us to manage construction operations more efficiently”

Said Eng. Gabriele Bertino of Cogeis.

The crane’s installation was also shaped by the site conditions. Potain’s modular design and installation approach helped the project team erect the MDT 269 efficiently despite confined space and the limitations of the local road infrastructure. Experienced technicians from Fissolo Gru and Manitowoc travelled to the Aosta Valley to oversee the installation.

Work on the hydropower modernization began in July 2025 and is scheduled for completion in 2028. Since the crane was erected, Fissolo Gru and Manitowoc have continued to support the machine with parts, technical assistance, maintenance and service to keep it operating productively throughout the project.

For Fissolo Gru, the project also highlights the long-term value of a crane that can combine existing fleet components with newer control technology.

“The Potain MDT 269 is a high-performance crane, and Cogeis knew exactly what it wanted, including being able to use existing mast sections from its fleet, and combining that with state-of-the-art technology. The MDT 269 is a versatile performer with a future-ready design that will deliver long-term value to the customer and ongoing return on investment”

Said Matteo Fissolo of Fissolo Gru.

Once work at Hone is complete, the Potain MDT 269 is expected to move on to other high-altitude infrastructure jobs, including the planned Cervinia 3S ropeway project.

[Job Story] Potain MDT 269 J12 Crane Takes on Precision Lifting as Aosta Valley Hydropower Plant Doubles Its Energy Ambition published on The HeavyQuip Magazine.