The process of cold storage units functioning differs from that of other commercial establishments. Their power consumption stays at a consistently high level due to the fact that refrigeration can’t be turned off. Moreover, during the summer period, there is an increase in electricity consumption due to the increased load on the cooling system.
For many companies using cold storage, the cost of electricity is not only associated with the volume of its consumption but also peak demand charges. That is the reason why solar for cold storage becomes increasingly relevant as a possible way to minimise operational expenses and secure energy supply.
At Innovel we provide clients with customised solar solutions for their operations.
Why Cold Storage Facilities Consume More Electricity
Cold storage businesses need constant cooling. Regardless of whether a cold storage business deals in fruits and vegetables, dairy products, medicines, or frozen foods, appropriate cooling is critical.
Refrigeration compressors run more frequently during summers due to the high outside temperature, which results in an increase in power consumption and also makes the business enter higher demand slabs.
This can prove to be financially significant in case of those businesses that operate on thin profit margins.
We always start our projects by understanding the energy profile of the building before recommending a solar solution.
Understanding Peak Demand Charges
The cost of an electric bill is not just the consumption of the total number of units.
There are other types of consumers, particularly those from the industrial and commercial sectors, who are charged for their demand.
This is because there is usually an increase in demand when the refrigeration, compressor, and pump, among others, run at the same time during the hottest afternoon of the day.
However, captive solar generation will help cover up some of the peak daytime demand through the production of electricity from the rooftop solar plant.
Why Solar for Cold Storage Operations is a Good Decision
The operational schedule of cold storage operations perfectly complements the production of electricity from solar panels.
The maximum demand for cooling takes place during the day when the sun shines with full power.
Thus, it is possible to cover with commercial solar systems a major share of electricity needs of refrigerators during business hours.
It is possible to reduce expenses on buying expensive peak electricity from the utility company by using self-generated electricity.
At Innovel, we analyse load schedules, roofs, and other parameters to develop solar power systems.
Lower Operating Costs Improve Business Stability
Electricity forms the highest recurrent cost for cold storage companies.
A reduction in these costs results in long-term economic gains.
The use of solar can help businesses manage their cash flows better since the cost of electricity will be reduced each month, while future tariff increases become predictable.
Unlike other operational costs which keep increasing every year, solar produces power for decades with minimal maintenance costs.
Solar at Innovel is seen as a business investment rather than just an energy savings strategy.
Designing the Right Commercial Solar System
Each cold store has its unique capacity in terms of refrigeration, operational times, and energy demands.
There is no standard design that will suit each and produce optimal outcomes.
One of the reasons why Innovel carries out an energy audit before installing solar panels on commercial sites is that we check the size of the roof, the energy requirements of the machinery and any future expansion plans.
An effective design will improve energy efficiency as well as operational planning.
Choosing the Right Commercial Solar Installers
It is not just about the panels when talking about commercial solar projects.
The engineering skills, the structure evaluation, the electrical connections, installation work and technical support will play their part in the efficiency of the system.
Commercial solar installers know how to design systems considering the business needs, not interfering in the regular operations of them.
We, at Innovel, can take care of the full lifecycle of a commercial solar project.
Affordable Solar Solutions That Delivers Long-Term Value
Most companies refrain from installing solar because they are fixated solely on the upfront costs involved.
What really matters is how much the solar system can save the company in the years to come.
Affordable solar solutions can give companies the ability to turn their underutilised roofs into income sources that will go on producing results for over 25 years.
When it comes to cold storage facilities, reduced energy bills, demand charges, and better energy planning translate into real savings each year.
Here at Innovel, we enable companies to think of solar not just as an installation but as an investment.
Looking Ahead
Cold storage facilities are critical components of the food value chain, pharmaceutical distribution, and agriculture sector in India. With increasing electricity prices, there is a growing need for businesses to find ways to improve their efficiency and make themselves financially viable.
Innovel strongly feels that solar for cold storage can meet your needs. With custom-designed solar solutions for businesses, we enable you to be less dependent on grid power and better able to cope with peak summer demand.
FAQs
- Is solar energy ideal for cold storage facilities?
Yes, since cold storage facilities require a huge amount of electricity during the day, they are most appropriate for rooftop solar.
- Will solar energy decrease electricity bills for cold storage firms?
Yes, solar energy can greatly minimise the use of grid electricity and therefore reduce monthly energy costs.
- How do commercial solar energy systems minimise peak demand charges?
By producing electricity during the day, thereby minimising peak demand charges on the grid.
- What is the longevity of commercial solar energy systems?
Commercial solar energy systems usually last for 25 years or even more.
- How do I select the correct commercial solar system installer?
Select a commercial solar system installer with extensive experience in commercial work, great engineering ability, good equipment, and good after-sales service.
