To reduce carbon emissions during the construction phase, Mapletree piloted the use of a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at an ongoing development project in Singapore to power heavy equipment such as tower cranes, passenger hoists and mast climbers – replacing conventional diesel-powered generator sets typically used on site.

Over a nine-month trial, baseline emissions from diesel generator operations were first established before transitioning to BESS-supported operations. The system was charged either by a smaller diesel generator or directly from the power grid to support intermittent load demands from construction equipment more efficiently.

The pilot demonstrated significant reductions in average monthly diesel consumption, achieving savings of approximately 60% for tower cranes, 57% for passenger hoists and 55% for mast climbers. In addition, the use of BESS, when charged by either the power grid or a smaller diesel generator, resulted in lower operational costs compared to conventional diesel generator sets.

These findings highlight the potential for electrification of construction activities to reduce site emissions and improve operational efficiency, supporting Mapletree’s broader efforts to lower embodied carbon emissions.

BESS at Mapletree Joo Koon Logistics Hub, Singapore.