Installation of the largest solar panel configuration atop a refrigerated warehouse complex in the Netherlands is almost complete. Zoeterwoude, South Holland-based Frigomundo Coldstore’s photovoltaic energy production system is expected to be operational by the end of May.
Some 5,800 solar panels occupy almost the entire 10,500 square meter roof, with collective capacity of 1.577 MWp that will likely yield 1.388 MWh per year. This is enough to meet the average annual energy needs of 300 four-person households. As Frigomundo uses around 2.915 MWh of energy a year, the solar panels will provide approximately 50% of the requirement. When cooling systems aren’t running, excess power will be diverted to the local electricity grid.
“There is a growing necessity for CO2-neutral production chains. By making the storage part more sustainable, we positively influence the environmental impact of the total production chains of our clients,” said Adriaan Figee, commercial director. “With this approach we are convinced we have a competitive edge compared to other coldstores, and we will attract clients with the same sustainability view for the future.”
Located near the Port of Rotterdam, Frigomundo handles chilled and ambient goods as well as frozen food products. The company is a unit of Zandbergen World’s Finest Meat, which supplies a wide range of frozen beef, pork, lamb and poultry and distributes the Frozen Butcher line of premium burger and carpaccio products.
