Heavy lift expertise on hand as Subhub wave turbine prepares for deployment to Strangford Lough
A Unique Project at Belfast Harbour
Belfast Harbour was the scene of a remarkable operation recently as a Subhub wave turbine was launched and prepared for towing to Strangford Lough. The complex operation brought together multiple partner organisations, each playing a critical role in ensuring the launch was completed safely and efficiently.
Kavanagh Crane Hire was proud to support this unique project, providing heavy lift capability for the operation. The Subhub—a wave energy conversion device designed for deployment in some of the most challenging marine environments—required careful handling and precision lifting as it was moved from land to water.
The Subhub Wave Turbine
The Subhub represents the next generation of marine renewable energy technology. Designed to harness the power of ocean waves, these devices are built to withstand the harshest conditions at sea while generating clean, sustainable electricity.
Launching a wave turbine is no ordinary operation. These devices are heavy, awkwardly shaped, and require precise coordination between multiple teams. The launch at Belfast Harbour involved:
- Heavy lift crane operations to move the Subhub from its assembly position
- Marine coordination to ensure the device entered the water safely
- Safety cover provided by Lagan Search & Rescue, who deployed their new flood boat with its low draft capability—ideal for the tight manoeuvring required on the day
- Land-based safety teams ensuring all personnel working near or on the water had appropriate PPE
Why Belfast Harbour?
Belfast Harbour is one of Ireland’s most important marine infrastructure hubs. Handling 70% of Northern Ireland’s seaborne imports and exports, the harbour is a critical gateway for trade and industry. It has also become a hub for renewable energy projects, with significant investment in port infrastructure to support the growing offshore and marine energy sectors.
The harbour’s deep-water access, heavy lift capabilities, and strategic location made it the ideal choice for launching the Subhub before its tow to Strangford Lough—a body of water known for its strong tidal currents and marine energy potential.
The Kavanagh Crane Hire Role
Our team was on hand to provide the heavy lift expertise required for this operation. Working alongside the other partner organisations, we ensured the Subhub was lifted and positioned safely for its launch.
Operations like this demand:
- Precision lifting – The Subhub’s size and weight required careful planning and execution
- Experienced operators – Our NPORS and CPCS certified operators are trained for complex marine and industrial lifts
- Reliable equipment – Our fleet includes cranes capable of handling heavy, awkward loads in challenging environments
- Coordination – Working seamlessly with marine teams, safety crews, and other partners on site
A Collaborative Effort
Projects of this scale are never the work of a single organisation. The Subhub launch brought together a diverse team of partners, each contributing their expertise:
- Marine coordination and safety cover – Lagan Search & Rescue provided on-water safety cover, deploying their new low-draft flood boat to navigate the tight spaces around the launch site
- Land-based safety teams – Ensuring all personnel working near or on the water were properly equipped with PPE
- Heavy lift expertise – Kavanagh Crane Hire provided the crane capability for the lift
- Logistics and project management – Coordinating the complex sequence of operations
“Thanks to all our partners and teams who assisted this huge move! Belfast Harbour couldn’t run smoothly without our partner organisations.”
Supporting Ireland’s Renewable Energy Future
Ireland is emerging as a leader in marine renewable energy, with projects like the Subhub representing the cutting edge of wave energy technology. Strangford Lough, where the Subhub is headed, is one of the most promising locations for tidal and wave energy development in Europe.
Kavanagh Crane Hire is proud to play a role in supporting these innovative projects. As Ireland’s largest fleet-owned crane hire company, we have the equipment, expertise, and experience to handle the most complex lifting challenges—whether on land, at port, or in support of marine operations.