- Austria’s torrent and avalanche control authority relies on Liebherr energy storage systems for the construction of a consolidation barrier
- The mobile, battery-based LPO 100 energy storage system covers the energy peaks of the Liebherr 34 K fast-erecting crane on site in an energy-efficient manner
- This makes the LPO 100 the ideal solution for power provision in remote areas with inadequate mains supplies, including those at altitudes of up to 1,000 metres
- The Austrian Torrent and Avalanche Control Centre implements structural protection measures in areas at risk of extreme weather events, such as landslides, floods and avalanches, in order to protect the Austrian population from the damage these events can cause. The local authority in Pongau is the first to use a Liebherr energy storage system to power a construction site instead of a diesel generator. This saves around 2,000 litres of diesel per month – another step towards sustainable construction.
- Baden (Switzerland), 22 September 2025 – Ellmau in the Grossarl valley in Salzburg’s Pongau region is one of the most beautiful areas in Austria. This hiking and holiday paradise is a popular destination for nature lovers, offering idyllic lakes, crystal-clear mountain streams and unique landscapes. However, nature also harbours unpredictable dangers. Landslides, debris flows, mudslides, avalanches and floods can occur at any moment. Therefore, measures must be taken in good time to protect the population in the surrounding valley and prevent damage. One such measure is the construction of a consolidation barrier in the Sillegggraben riverbed on Ellmauer Alm, which is intended to protect against falling debris from the mountain. A Liebherr 34 K fast-erecting crane is being used on the construction site to build the protective structure. Nikolaus Wieser, the site manager from the Austrian Torrent and Avalanche Control Centre, ensures that both planning and day-to-day operations run smoothly.
- The challenge of supplying energy to the construction site
- One of the biggest challenges when planning a construction site in such a remote area is ensuring an adequate energy supply. Often, the local grid supply is insufficient to cover large power peaks, such as those required for crane lifts, or it is not even available. In this case, the fast-erecting crane is the largest energy consumer on site. Typically, a diesel generator would be used for this purpose. However, the Torrent Control Centre has opted for a different solution ‒ the LPO 100 mobile energy storage unit by Liebherr.
- Energy storage as a sustainable and efficient alternative to a diesel generator
- With a capacity of 94 kWh, the energy storage system buffers the fixed power connection on site. In addition to powering the crane, it supplies other equipment, such as container units, battery-powered devices, circular saws and a water pump. During the day, the storage system is used to cover the crane’s energy peaks of up to 100 kVA. Only the energy needed is consumed. The storage system can be charged during operation or at night. The Liebherr energy storage system has been permanently installed next to a container for over four months. Nikolaus Wieser is satisfied with the new solution: “We could have used a diesel generator to power the construction site as we always have before. However, we also strive to reduce emissions, so we are delighted to be using this innovative Liebherr solution.”
- Compared to a diesel generator, Wieser believes the main benefit of the energy storage system is that it can be used all day without needing to be refuelled. This requires less logistical effort and time. Additionally, around 2,000 litres of diesel can be saved each month. At a price of 1.40 euros per litre, this equates to 2,800 euros per month, or 11,200 euros over four months. Furthermore, using the energy storage system saves around 20.3 tonnes of CO₂ over four months. This is equivalent to the average annual CO₂ footprint of two people living in Germany.
- Positive feedback on the Liebherr solution
- “The installation went well, and the storage system has been up and running ever since — that’s how it should be,” says Wieser, sounding positive. He views the Liebherr energy storage system as an innovative, sustainable solution and can see it being used in inner-city areas where noise emissions are regulated.
- About Liebherr-Components AG
- The Liebherr Group specialises in the development, design, manufacture and reconditioning of high-performance components in the field of mechanical, hydraulic and electrical drive and control technology. Liebherr-Component Technologies AG, based in Bulle (Switzerland), is responsible for the coordination of all activities in the components product segment.
- The extensive programme includes combustion engines, injection systems, engine control units, axial piston pumps and motors, hydraulic cylinders, slewing bearings, gearboxes and rope winches, switchgear, electronic and power electronics components and software. The high-quality components are used in cranes and earthmoving machinery, in the mining industry, maritime applications, wind turbines, automotive engineering, aviation and transport technology. Synergy effects from the other product segments of the Liebherr Group are utilised to drive forward continuous technological development.
- About Liebherr Österreich Vertriebs- und Service GmbH
- Liebherr Österreich Vertriebs- und Service GmbH, based in Puch near Hallein, is responsible for the sales and service of Liebherr construction machinery in Austria. This includes earthmoving and material handling machines, tower cranes, specialised foundation engineering machines, concrete technology, mobile and crawler cranes as well as rental and used equipment. The company also has branches in Vienna, Wels, Peggau, Klagenfurt, Telfs and Rankweil.
- About the Liebherr Group
- The Liebherr Group is a family-run technology company with a highly diversified product programme. The company is one of the largest construction equipment manufacturers in the world. It also provides high-quality, user-oriented products and services in a wide range of other areas. The Liebherr Group includes over 150 companies across all continents. In 2024, it employed more than 50,000 staff and achieved combined revenues of over 14 billion euros. Liebherr was founded by Hans Liebherr in 1949 in the southern German town of Kirchdorf an der Iller. Since then, the employees have been pursuing the goal of achieving continuous technological innovation, and bringing industry-leading solutions to its customers.
Sustainable power supply in construction – Liebherr energy storage systems for Austrian civil protection
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