Potain MDT 269 supports major hydropower plant upgrade in northern Italy

• The Potain MDT 269 J12 topless tower crane is deployed on a hydropower plant upgrade in Italy's Aosta Valley, doubling energy production upon completion.

• The crane handles large penstock sections directly, streamlining logistics by eliminating multiple intermediate handling steps.

• Featuring a 12 t capacity, 65 m jib, and advanced Crane Control System, the crane offers rapid setup, load management, and operator comfort with the Ultra View cab.

• The project involves close cooperation between Fissolo Gru, Manitowoc, and contractor Cogeis, with plans to redeploy the crane to future high-altitude infrastructure projects.

• Potain topless tower crane enhances logistics on complex alpine jobsite.

• Advanced Crane Control System (CCS) improves efficiency and commissioning time

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A major hydropower modernization project in the Aosta Valley, Italy, is using a Potain MDT 269 J12 topless tower crane. The historic Hone hydroelectric power plant has operated for over 100 years, and when reconstruction is complete, annual energy production is expected to double from 50 to 100 GWh. The crane was supplied by the Italian Potain dealer Fissolo Gru, directly to the main contractor, Cogeis, which is leading the work on the Hone project.

Upgrade work includes rebuilding the plant and its intake structure; excavating an 8 km tunnel, and installing a new high-capacity penstock. The Potain MDT 269 is focused on installing the new penstock and is handling sections from the storage area, moving them to the construction cableway, eliminating several intermediate handling phases and optimizing overall logistics.

The work requires precise material handling and efficient operation in a challenging high-altitude environment. Potain’s focus on modular, intuitive installation meant that the crane was erected efficiently, despite the confined space and limitations of the local road infrastructure.

For the project, the 12 t capacity Potain MDT 269 is working with a 65 m jib and at a 50 m hook height. The crane lifts 3.1 t at the end of its 65 m jib, giving it ample capacity for the project’s requirements. It benefits from the Crane Control System (CCS), which enables rapid configuration in as little as 15 minutes and advanced load management. Additional features include the option to operate the crane from the cab or remotely, as well as adjustable speed settings. For the operator, the Ultra View cab provides enhanced visibility and comfort, supporting productive and efficient operation.

“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.

Work began in July 2025 and will be completed in 2028. Experienced technicians from Fissolo Gru and Manitowoc travelled to the Aoasta Valley to oversee the smooth and efficient installation of the crane. Since then, the two companies have worked together to provide full support, including parts, technical assistance, maintenance, and more, to ensure the crane continues to operate at its most productive. Once the project completes, the Potain MDT 269 will be redeployed to other high-altitude infrastructure jobs, including the planned Cervinia 3S ropeway project.

“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.

Through advanced lifting solutions such as the Potain MDT 269 J12, Manitowoc is continuing to support complex energy infrastructure projects, helping contractors improve productivity and operational efficiency on demanding jobsites.