Manitowoc Supports Italy's Hydropower Plant Modernization

Cogeis selected a high-capacity tower crane to streamline penstock installation and material logistics during a long-term hydropower upgrade project.  www.manitowoc.com A major modernization project at the Hone hydroelectric power plant in Italy's Aosta Valley is using a Potain MDT 269 topless tower crane from Manitowoc to support the reconstruction of key energy infrastructure. The project, led by contractor Cogeis, aims to increase annual electricity production from 50 GWh to 100 GWh while upgrading critical components of a facility that has operated for more than a century. Hydropower Upgrade Creates Complex Lifting Requirements The Hone modernization project includes rebuilding the power plant and intake structure, excavating an 8 km tunnel, and installing a new high-capacity penstock. These activities require continuous movement of heavy components in a mountainous environment where space constraints and transportation access present logistical challenges. For Cogeis, one of the primary objectives was to improve material handling efficiency during penstock installation while minimizing unnecessary lifting and transfer operations. Reducing intermediate handling stages was important for maintaining project productivity and controlling construction logistics. Selecting a Tower Crane for Penstock Installation To support these requirements, Cogeis deployed a Potain MDT 269 topless tower crane supplied by Italian dealer Fissolo Gru. The crane is primarily dedicated to handling penstock sections between the storage area and the construction cableway. According to Cogeis, the ability to move penstock sections directly eliminated several intermediate handling phases that would otherwise have required additional equipment and labor. This streamlined logistics process reduced material movements across the construction site and improved workflow efficiency. Technical Configuration for High-Altitude Construction The Potain MDT 269 operates with a maximum lifting capacity of 12 t, a 65 m jib, and a hook height of 50 m. At the end of the jib, it can lift 3.1 t, providing sufficient reach and capacity for the project's material-handling requirements. Several technical characteristics influenced the equipment selection. The crane incorporates the Crane Control System (CCS), which enables rapid configuration and advanced load-management functions. Operators can work either from the Ultra View cab or through remote-control operation, while adjustable speed settings provide flexibility for different lifting tasks. The crane's modular design was particularly relevant because the project site is located in a high-altitude area with restricted access roads and limited assembly space. In addition, Cogeis was able to utilize existing mast sections from its crane fleet, reducing the need for additional structural components. Deployment and Technical Support Construction work began in July 2025 and is scheduled for completion in 2028. During installation, technicians from Fissolo Gru and Manitowoc travelled to the Aosta Valley to oversee crane assembly and commissioning. Following deployment, both companies have continued to provide technical assistance, maintenance services, and spare-parts support to help maintain equipment availability throughout the multi-year project. The crane is expected to remain in service beyond the Hone project. After completion of the hydropower upgrade, it is planned to be redeployed to other infrastructure developments in mountainous environments, including the planned Cervinia 3S ropeway project. Operational Impact on the Project The direct handling of penstock sections provides a measurable operational benefit by reducing the number of lifting and transfer stages required during installation. The crane's reach, lifting capacity, and flexible operating modes support efficient material movement in a constrained construction environment. Combined with ongoing technical support and compatibility with existing fleet components, the deployment contributes to improved logistics management and equipment utilization throughout the hydropower modernization project. When completed in 2028, the upgraded Hone hydroelectric plant is expected to double annual electricity generation from 50 GWh to 100 GWh, increasing renewable energy output from the site while extending the operational life of the facility. Edited by Aishwarya Mambet, Induportals Editor, with AI assistance. www.manitowoc.com Powered by Induportals Media Publishing