Sarens Continues to Power Shell’s Polaris CCS Project with Precision Heavy Lifting and Installation

Following our initial operations at Shell’s Polaris Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) project in Alberta, Canada, Sarens continues to deliver precision-engineered lifting and transport solutions that support the construction of one of Canada’s most important decarbonisation facilities.

In December 2024, Sarens announced its integral role in the project’s early phase, which included the heavy transport and installation of the Amine Absorber, Amine Stripper, and Quench Tower—key components of the carbon capture process. That campaign marked the start of our work at the Scotford site, combining meticulous route planning, expert coordination with Alberta Transportation, and the use of our CC6800 and CC2800 cranes, supported by Kamag K25 trailers and SPMT units.

Today, Sarens’ role has expanded further, as our teams continue to execute the next phase of the Shell Polaris CCS project, advancing the construction of the new carbon capture facility with additional heavy lift, heavy haul, and mechanical erection operations.

Engineering Expertise in Action

In this latest phase, Sarens was responsible for lifting and installing large prefabricated units—including the BU-4602N E-House, weighing 245 Tonnes, standing 8.5 metres tall, and lifted at a 22-metre radius.

The operation was carried out using the CC6800 (SSL/LSL 102m) and CC2800 (SSL 48m) cranes, supported by a fleet of 12 rough terrain and 2 all-terrain cranes.

Executed as a 16-point lift, this operation required precise sling adjustment and load distribution to maintain uniform tension. The confined site area demanded a carefully choreographed sequence of movements—crawling, slewing, and booming down—all completed under close supervision and in full compliance with Shell’s safety protocols.

Despite challenging conditions, including persistent rain and snow, Sarens’ engineering and operations teams ensured that every lift was performed safely and efficiently.

“All heavy lifting activities have gone excellent,” said Paul Betts, Project Manager at Sarens. “Our crew worked with precision and professionalism at every stage, particularly given the tight working space and high visibility of the project.”

Driving Industry Standards Forward

At Sarens, we don’t just adapt to new industry standards—we help set them. When Shell introduced its new IOGP Hoisting Standard, Sarens was among the first partners worldwide to pilot the programme. Through the Shell Polaris project, our teams successfully operated under this new framework, contributing to a smooth and safe execution. This collaboration once again reflects our commitment to working hand in hand with our clients, aligning with their procedures and innovations—especially those that raise the bar for safety across the industry. Shell has since featured this project in a global video introducing the IOGP Hoisting Standard, which will be rolled out worldwide in 2027.

Seamless Logistics and Coordination

Sarens also managed the transportation of heavy components from its branch facilities to the jobsite. A total of 40 transport operations were performed, including the delivery of the E-House—measuring 38 metres long and 7.5 metres wide—through a narrow gate and around a corner on an uphill section.

Assembly on-site was completed in two weeks, thanks to the efficiency and experience of the Sarens team.

Supporting the Energy Transition

The Shell Polaris CCS project, which began in October 2024, continues to progress on schedule, creating around 300 jobs during construction and contributing to Shell’s global efforts to reduce emissions. Together with the Quest CCS facility already in operation, Polaris will significantly increase Shell’s carbon capture capacity in Canada.

From heavy transport to mechanical erection, Sarens’ contribution remains vital to the project’s success. The seamless continuation between last year’s transport and installation campaigns and this year’s heavy lift and erection operations highlights the long-term partnership and trust between Shell and Sarens.

As the project advances toward completion in 2026, Sarens remains proud to play a leading role in supporting technologies that will shape a more sustainable energy future.