Kynningsrud Pioneers Electric Heavy Lifting with Liebherr LR 1250 Unplugged in Norway
- Meagan Wood
- Oct 22, 2021
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 19
30 Second Takeaway
Kynningsrud has taken a leading role in Norway’s push toward net-zero emissions by deploying the fully electric Liebherr LR 1250 Unplugged crawler crane. Since its delivery in May 2021, the crane has proven its effectiveness on site, demonstrating that electric heavy lifting is both practical and reliable in real construction environments.
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Supporting Norway’s Net-Zero Ambitions
Norwegian crane hire specialist Kynningsrud is reinforcing Norway’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2030 through the early adoption of fully electric heavy lifting equipment.
In May 2021, the company took delivery of the first fully electric Liebherr LR 1250 Unplugged crawler crane, marking a significant milestone for electric crane technology in the Nordic region.
Proven Performance on Site
From Delivery to Operation
Following delivery, the LR 1250 Unplugged was assigned to its first project: the construction of a sports centre in Oslo. Since entering service, the crane has delivered strong operational performance, validating Liebherr’s electric crawler crane concept under real working conditions.
The crane operates on a battery-powered system, allowing it to perform lifting operations without a continuous external power connection. This capability offers greater flexibility on site while eliminating local emissions and reducing noise levels.
Addressing Industry Questions Around Electrification
Efficiency, Charging and Practicality
Since the introduction of fully electric cranes and plant, questions have remained across the industry regarding charging times, operational efficiency, and the need for permanent power connections.
Kynningsrud’s experience with the LR 1250 Unplugged provides practical insight into these concerns, demonstrating that electric crawler cranes can deliver consistent performance when properly integrated into project planning and site logistics.
The Broader Energy Transition
Multiple Pathways to Decarbonisation
As manufacturers continue to explore alternative power solutions, including battery-electric and hydrogen-based technologies, the construction equipment sector is undergoing rapid transformation.
While battery-electric solutions are already delivering measurable benefits on site, ongoing investment across the industry suggests that a range of technologies may play a role in supporting future low- and zero-emission heavy plant operations.
About Kynningsrud
Kynningsrud is a Norway-based crane hire and heavy lifting company with a long-standing presence in the Nordic construction and infrastructure market. Known for early adoption of innovative lifting solutions, the company supports a wide range of civil, commercial and industrial projects.
Through continued investment in electric and low-emission equipment, Kynningsrud is actively contributing to Norway’s sustainability targets and the wider transition toward greener construction practices.
About Liebherr
The Liebherr Group is a family-owned global manufacturer of construction machinery, material handling equipment and advanced technology solutions. Founded in 1949, Liebherr operates in more than 50 countries, serving industries including construction, mining, maritime and industrial logistics.
Liebherr’s Unplugged range of electric crawler cranes has been developed to deliver high lifting performance with zero local emissions, supporting sustainable construction projects worldwide.
Website: https://www.liebherr.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What crane did Kynningsrud deploy?
Kynningsrud deployed the fully electric Liebherr LR 1250 Unplugged crawler crane.
When was the crane delivered?
The crane was delivered in May 2021.
Where did the crane first operate?
Its first project was a sports centre development in Oslo, Norway.
Does the LR 1250 Unplugged need to be permanently plugged in?
No. The crane operates on battery power and does not require a continuous external power supply during lifting operations.
Why is this project significant?
It demonstrates that fully electric heavy lifting equipment can operate effectively on real construction projects, supporting net-zero goals.
