With temperature control absolutely fundamental to cold storage, our industry is particularly exposed to this year’s hikes in energy costs. There is no quick solution to the energy crisis and the massive price increases are forecast to continue into next year and beyond. We are urging Government to continue support beyond the end of the Energy Bill Relief Scheme in March 2023. But cold storage operators are wisely recognising that energy costs are expected to pose an ongoing challenge, and responding by minimising energy consumption where possible.
Businesses throughout the cold chain are judiciously investing to accelerate energy efficiency improvements through new skills, new infrastructure and new technologies. Encompassing all three, automation is set to play an important role as we move towards net zero cold stores. The technology is already being seen increasingly in the new facilities coming on stream, with products moved by robotic material handling equipment and controlled by a bespoke warehouse management software system.
A key benefit is that automation allows very high stock density: with more pallet storage per square metre not only are storage capabilities increased within a smaller footprint, but energy use per pallet is significantly more efficient. Pallets are moved on ‘taxis’ and only when necessary, with doors opened for as little time as possible. There’s no need for forklift access so facilities can minimise heat loss through smaller, rapid envelope and airlock doors. Lighting needs are dramatically reduced and the taxis require less energy than a forklift.
The software system can give real-time, accurate insight into the system’s performance so operators can continuously optimise the facility’s power consumption. Examples in the UK show energy use at 50% less per pallet position in a fully automated system compared with traditional operations. The effect of this efficiency on energy bills in the current climate will be very significant.
The UK’s early adopters of automated cold storage are a great representation of the strong progress our industry is making towards a highly efficient, net zero future. We are calling on Government to support this transition with practical action such as providing grant funding to help SMEs make capital energy efficiency investments.
Automation is just one of the options that cold stores have at their disposal as they seek energy efficiency today and for the future. The Cold Chain Federation’s comprehensive energy guide Energy Efficiency in Cold Storage (www.coldchainfederation.org/advice) details a range of approaches and measures cold stores can consider, both in the here and now and for the future.
Shane Brennan
Chief Executive, Cold Chain Federation
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