Coles trials next-gen cooling system

Researchers from the University of South Australia have worked with industry to build a new-generation, energy-efficient refrigeration system which they say could transform the way supermarkets, hospitals, abattoirs and other systems are cooled.

Co-developed by UniSA and Glaciem Cooling Technologies, the system uses indirect evaporative (dewpoint) carbon dioxide (DP-CO2) technology. It has been installed in the new Coles supermarket in Norwood, SA, and subsequently has been tested and monitored under Australia’s RACE for 2030 cooperative research centre program.

Preliminary results are promising, indicating that the system has the potential to reduce annual refrigeration energy consumption by 19% and reduce peak electricity demand by 37%.

Image courtesy of the University of South Australia.

The university said that if the system proves successful, Coles and other businesses may be encouraged to adopt it across all their sites to slash electricity consumption and greenhouse gas emissions associated with cold chains.

The project’s chief investigator, UniSA sustainable energy researcher Dr Tim Lau, said that heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration can account for up to 70% of customers’ electricity usage and 24% of Australia’s electricity consumption.

“The system uses dewpoint coolers to pre-cool the ambient air, allowing the overall system to operate efficiently, even in hot climates exceeding 40°C, reducing energy usage by more than a third, compared to conventional systems during summer months,” Lau said.

A computational model has been developed to assess the system’s potential across various sectors, including hospitals, meat processing plants, cold storage and aquariums. The greatest benefits are expected to be seen in hot, dry climates like central Australia.

“This project paves the way for greener and more cost-effective commercial refrigeration, not only in Australia but across the world,” Lau said.

For more details about the system, visit: https://bit.ly/4bKAwyv.

Top image credit: iStock.com/ZeynepKaya