UK online grocer Ocado has become the latest retailer to implement Sunswap’s solar-powered transport refrigeration technology in its fleet.
The solar-fuelled electric refrigeration deployment is part of Ocado’s net-zero-by-2040 commitment, helping to decarbonise the transport its uses to move goods around the country.
Sunswap, a British manufacturer which is already trialling its technology with Tesco and Birds Eye, has placed its ‘Endurance’ tech in Ocado’s double-deck trailer fleet. The idea is to keep fresh and frozen goods chilled, while minimising its carbon footprint.
By eliminating diesel in this process entirely, each Endurance unit saves 20.5 tonnes of CO2 annually while reducing operating costs by up to 81% compared to traditional refrigeration units, according to Sunswap.
The solar panels integrated into each trailer roof provide additional free energy to reduce grid charging requirements and extend unit range, the manufacturer added.
Endurance promises to deliver up to 24 hours of frozen operation or two months of chilled operation on a single charge.
Commenting on the partnership which began in July, Michael Lowe, CEO of Sunswap, said: “We’re delighted that Ocado has chosen Sunswap’s zero-emission refrigeration technology.
“This deployment demonstrates that electric refrigeration can meet the operational requirements of major grocery retailers while supporting their sustainability goals.”
[image credit: Sunswap/Ocado]
