Expert Contract Lifting for Energy Storage Projects | Copwood VFB Energy Hub
Executive Summary
- Delivered contract lifting for vanadium flow battery installation at the Copwood VFB Energy Hub
- Appointed by Aniron, with batteries supplied by Invinity Energy Systems
- Phase 1 completed using a Liebherr LTM 1230 with 72 tonnes of ballast
- Installed 40 battery units in one week, each weighing 25 tonnes
- Batteries transported from Motherwell and lifted directly into final position
- Phase 2 planned to install a further 50 units, completing the 90-unit system
Project Overview
The Copwood VFB Energy Hub is a live energy infrastructure project supporting the deployment of long-duration energy storage (LDES) for the UK grid. Cadman Cranes was engaged by Aniron, the principal contractor, to deliver contract lifting for the installation of vanadium flow batteries supplied by Invinity Energy Systems.
The Copwood site will provide LDES capable of absorbing excess renewable generation and returning it through a single point of connection to the grid when demand is highest. Invinity’s vanadium flow battery system is being developed as a long-term reference installation, designed to operate reliably for decades with stable performance.
The project also incorporates important environmental initiatives that demonstrate the values of considerate construction and long-term land stewardship. A notable initiative is the use of ground screw piling to support the batteries on site, cutting carbon emissions by around 80% compared to concrete foundations, enabling quick installation with minimal ground disruption, and reducing the need for heavy machinery.
Combined with the sustainability benefits of Invinity’s vanadium flow battery technology, this project is playing a critical role in demonstrating the long-term environmental benefits of using safe and durable battery technology to support the UK’s clean energy transition.
Each battery unit was manufactured off site in Scotland and transported from Motherwell to Copwood, arriving as a high-value, 25-tonne component requiring accurate, efficient installation without disruption to the wider construction programme.
Our Role
Cadman Cranes was responsible for the full contract lift scope, including lift planning, method statements, crane selection and on-site execution. The works were delivered in phases, requiring close coordination with delivery schedules, site access, and ongoing civil and electrical activities.
Phase 1 Lifting Operations
For Phase 1, Cadman Cranes delivered a week-long heavy-lift programme, deploying a Liebherr LTM 1230 all-terrain mobile crane, configured with 72 tonnes of ballast.
Over the course of one week on site, the team offloaded and installed 40 vanadium flow battery units, each weighing 25 tonnes, positioning them directly from delivery vehicles onto prepared foundations.
Operating within a constrained site layout, the lifting team sequenced operations around civil and electrical works already underway. Each lift required controlled movements, precise placement and clear communication between Cadman’s lifting team, site management and delivery drivers.
With multiple heavy units arriving from long-distance transport, sequencing and timing were critical to maintaining programme momentum. Close coordination with Aniron’s site management ensured crane setup, delivery timing and lifting windows aligned with the wider construction schedule.
Adapting on Site
The combination of heavy loads, limited working areas and changing weather conditions required careful planning and real-time adjustment. Restricted space for crane repositioning meant each setup had to maximise coverage while maintaining safe working margins.
Cadman Cranes worked closely with Aniron and Invinity to respond to these conditions, adapting lift sequences and site logistics where required. Throughout the week, the team adjusted communication routines and vehicle movements to maintain progress while preserving clear exclusion zones and safe working distances.
This approach allowed Phase 1 lifting operations to be completed safely and efficiently despite the site constraints.
Outcome
- 40 VFB battery units successfully installed during Phase 1
- No lifting-related incidents or programme delays
- Phase 2 mobilisation planned and ready for delivery
Supporting Energy Infrastructure
Cadman Cranes will return to Copwood for Phase 2 to lift and install the remaining 50 battery units, completing the 90-unit system. Once fully commissioned, the Copwood VFB Energy Hub will store surplus renewable power and dispatch it during periods of peak demand, reducing curtailment and supporting a more balanced electricity network.
Projects like Copwood demonstrate how specialist lift management underpins the delivery of large-scale energy storage assets. By providing safe, predictable lifting operations, Cadman Cranes supports the timely delivery of infrastructure that plays a critical role in strengthening the UK’s energy system.
To discuss your project requirements, please get in touch.
