Coolstore saves $10,000 p.a using EcoChill natural refrigeration system.

A case study released by EcoChill has highlighted how significant savings can be made through the choice of a cool stores refrigeration system.

“The study showed the EcoChill system used 14.4% less energy while providing 17.5% more refrigeration power. At a cost of 15c per kWhr that’s over $10,000 less energy cost than the standard system every year” said EcoChill’s Managing Director Matthew Darby. “And that’s just the power savings”.

Research shows natural refrigeration systems are becoming popular as companies focus on energy efficiency and reducing environmental risk. “Customers want to operate in a more sustainable way but think it’s too expensive. That might have been the case previously, but systems are now very comparable” said Mr Darby.

Increasing costs, such as the rising price of synthetic refrigerants, is also driving choice for natural systems. “R404a has increased in price by over 50% in the last year. Synthetics are facing tough restrictions and even phase-outs in many countries. Many customers are realising naturals can be a better choice to future proof the bottom line. ”

The amount of refrigerant needed in an EcoChill system is typically less than 10% of a standard system. “Using average industry leakages rates of 10% (compared to EcoChill’s average rates of less than 2%), that’s 22.6 kgs less top up refrigerant needed, plus lower service and maintenance costs.”

The system also delivers in reducing environmental impacts. “By reducing its TEWI this particular coolstore saved the equivalent amount of electricity as it takes to power 105 residential homes in a year.”

EcoChill recently became Contact Energy’s refrigeration partner, helping customers reduce their energy use and operating costs while optimising refrigeration performance. “Energy efficiency, reduction of emissions and sustainability are now important business drivers. Customers expect suppliers to help them understand how they can deliver results in these areas”.

Some businesses have seen savings of 40-60% by working towards energy management goals with EcoChill. “Kerifresh, a Turners & Growers kiwifruit packhouse, saw a 36% reduction in energy costs while cooling 28% more product,” said Mr Darby. “That’s a lot more cold kiwifruit for your money”.