Many agricultural refrigeration systems still operate on synthetic refrigerants that are banned, no longer produced, or will soon be phased out due to European legislation. Yet, the sector still perceives sustainability as difficult, expensive, or even impossible.
Equans Refrigeration & Heating Solutions This article dispels six persistent prejudices and demonstrates that making your refrigeration system more sustainable is technically and financially feasible, especially if you take the right steps in time.
1. 'I need a larger power connection when I replace my installation'
The prejudice:
Going green means a larger cooling system and therefore a more powerful power connection. And that's often unavailable or extremely expensive.
The reality:
Modern refrigeration systems using natural refrigerants like ammonia are often much more energy-efficient. This allows you to run a more powerful and reliable system with the same power connection. In many cases, you can therefore make your transition to sustainability without expanding your grid capacity. This makes the switch not only feasible but also more cost-effective than you might think.
2. 'There is nothing wrong with my current installation'
The prejudice:
If there are no problems, why should I change anything?
The reality:
As long as there's no problem, you can run your existing system on synthetic refrigerants that are being phased out in the coming years. But are you aware of the risks? In the event of a leak or a defect due to an accident or metal fatigue, the correct refrigerants are difficult or impossible to obtain. And blends create different conditions that impact your product quality and capacity. Agricultural entrepreneurs often rely on their regular installers, but they may not always offer the latest or most sustainable solutions. This leads to ignorance and unnecessary risks. Therefore, sustainability isn't a luxury; it's risk management.
3. 'My installation is too old or not suitable for conversion'
The prejudice:
I have to build everything from scratch because my existing installation cannot be included in the sustainability measures.
The reality:
In practice, many existing storage systems are suitable for conversion to a system with natural refrigerantsEspecially if you choose techniques that don't rely on outside air, smart solutions are often possible within the existing infrastructure. So you don't always have to rebuild completely to ensure future-proof storage.
4. 'I still have enough time'
The prejudice:
The rules regarding refrigerants will not change for another few years, so I'll wait a while.
The reality:
The phasing out of synthetic refrigerants is already in full swing. For many types, and especially for R404A and R507, have prices skyrocketed, or has supply stopped? Is your system down? Then you're left empty-handed, especially during peak season. Sustainability takes time (an average of six months from plan to commissioning), so starting too late exposes your business to significant risks. Early preparation is essential.
5. 'My products are good, so I should get a good price anyway'
The prejudice:
The quality of my crop is high, so I don't have to worry about storage.
The reality:
Storage conditions largely determine product quality and sales opportunities. Changing weather conditions make the outside air increasingly unreliable. Increased humidity, fluctuating temperatures, and longer periods of warmth or wetness pose risks. Modern storage systems enable precise cooling and drying, independent of the weather. This means better product quality and greater flexibility in your cultivation and marketing strategies.
6. "I can't afford it"
The prejudice:
Making things more sustainable is expensive and not feasible for my company.
The reality:
Sustainable refrigeration technology is now being produced more frequently and has therefore become more affordable. Moreover, modern systems consume up to tens of percent less energy. What once seemed like "free outside air" now proves to be expensive due to high ventilation losses. Furthermore, building a storage facility without outside air systems is simpler and cheaper, because a complex and expensive roof structure is unnecessary. That saved money can be wisely invested in sustainable refrigeration technology and even a multifunctional storage facility where you can better respond to market demand.
Finally:
Sustainability isn't a buzzword, it's a necessity. The good news? It's technically and financially feasible, as long as you start early. Don't let outdated assumptions or incomplete information hold you back. Take a critical look at your system, ask your supplier the right questions, and create a plan that will prepare your company for the future. Need help? Equans Refrigeration & Heating Solutions is happy to help you on your way.