Atlas Copco Supports Key Philippine Infrastructure with High-Performance Dewatering Technology

In alignment with Norway’s broader ambitions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance the sustainability of its construction sector, the Norwegian government has implemented strict new regulations. These measures are specifically designed to cut down on CO₂ emissions and reduce noise levels at building sites. In line with these national targets, the E18 highway project will be certified under BREEAM Infrastructure – an internationally recognized environmental assessment methodology. The goal is to reach the “Excellent” certification level, demonstrating superior performance in sustainability. BREEAM Infrastructure is globally acknowledged as the leading assessment and rating scheme for civil engineering, infrastructure, and public realm projects, rewarding developments that make sustainability a central priority.

Atlas Copco's distribution box serves as the central hub for power optimization

Elise Roalkvam, an Environmental Consultant at Skanska, has emphasized the urgent need for sustainable methods in the construction sector. “We are currently experiencing a period of transformation within our industry,” Roalkvam explained. “It is crucial that Skanska adapts to these changes and actively leads the way toward more environmentally conscious solutions. As part of this shift, we are investigating new alternatives for how we supply power at our construction sites – and battery-powered systems have emerged as a vital element in that transition.”

Roalkvam further added, “The integration of the Atlas Copco battery energy storage system has significantly changed how we operate. It’s not just a question of replacing one energy source with another – this technology is prompting a shift in how we think about power management overall. For this specific project, the results have been clear: reductions in diesel fuel consumption, lower CO₂ emissions, and a noticeable decrease in noise pollution on the site.”

The Atlas Copco ZBC 250-575 energy storage system is at the heart of this change. It has enabled Skanska to save approximately 340 liters of diesel fuel each day. Over the course of a single week, this translates into a reduction of around 4.2 tons of CO₂ emissions and a financial saving of roughly 1,700 euros. These figures highlight the effectiveness of battery-powered systems in high-energy-demand environments like large-scale infrastructure projects.

One of the primary technical challenges encountered during the construction of the E18 has been the limited capacity of the on-site power grid. It simply does not meet the project's high energy requirements. Tom Stadeløkken, Energy Financial Project Leader at Skanska, explains how they tackled this issue: “To address the power supply limitations, we deployed Atlas Copco’s ZBC 250-575 energy storage solution. This system has significantly improved the available energy on-site. We were able to power key equipment, such as an electric compressor with frequency control and an electrically driven drilling rig. The battery system enables peak shaving by balancing the power load, thereby avoiding spikes that the local grid cannot support.”

Atlas Copco’s ZBC 250-575 energy storage system delivering onsite

In addition to the battery system, Skanska also implemented the newly developed Atlas Copco power distribution box. This device acts as a central unit for managing and optimizing energy flows across the construction site. “With the distribution box in place, we have the ability to regulate and control power output with precision,” Stadeløkken explained. “The battery system supplements the grid by supplying extra energy beyond the 160 kW limit, ensuring we don’t overload the main connection. This way, we maintain uninterrupted operations without putting excess stress on the electrical infrastructure.” Furthermore, the project now includes a new 240 kW fast-charging station used to recharge electric vehicles and machinery, contributing further to reduced emissions and improved operational efficiency.

Atlas Copco, the supplier of these advanced energy solutions, has expressed pride in contributing to Skanska’s success on the E18 highway project. “We are honored to support Skanska in the realization of this major national infrastructure initiative,” said Jon-Andreas Ellefsen, Sales Manager at Atlas Copco. “Our energy storage systems are designed not only to supply power but also to transform the way energy is managed on construction sites. By enabling better control over total energy usage and enhancing efficiency, we’re actively helping construction sites move toward a greener, more sustainable operational model.” He added, “The strategy involves controlling the incoming power from the mains, optimizing it to ensure minimal energy waste while securing a consistent and reliable power supply. This method directly leads to significant cost reductions related to energy usage.”

The Skanska-led Strand-Ramstadsletta contract forms a vital part of the broader E18 Western Corridor project. This long-term initiative is aimed at modernizing and expanding the key highway link between Lysaker in Bærum and Drengsrud in Asker municipality. The newly designed E18 is set to replace one of Norway’s busiest and most problematic road.

The contract is part of the more extensive E18 Western Corridor project