By implementing Cartesian’s Thermal Box, REMA 1000 in Mjøndalen has achieved a significant reduction in energy consumption. This thermal energy storage technology has optimized the store’s refrigeration system, thereby lowering costs and improving its environmental profile.
REMA 1000 in Mjøndalen faced challenges associated with high energy consumption, especially on hot days when the cooling demand peaks. To address these challenges, the Thermal Box was integrated into the store’s CO2 refrigeration system.
The Thermal Box is based on phase change materials (PCMs), an advanced solution for thermal energy storage. The system stores cooling energy during periods of low demand and releases it when demand is higher, a process known as load shifting. The Thermal Box reduces the strain on the refrigeration system and supports more balanced energy consumption by reducing peak loads. The result is lower operating costs for the HVAC system, which regulates temperature, air quality, and humidity in buildings.
‘It’s exciting to be part of a project like this, and I’m confident it will save costs for both us and the environment’. – Store manager at REMA 1000 Orkidehøgda speaking to NRK.
Reduction in Total Energy Consumption
Through the implementation of thermal energy storage and PCM technology, REMA 1000 has achieved significant improvements in energy management and sustainability. The system is also scalable for use in other stores. Key benefits include:
- Optimization of existing systems. By integrating thermal energy storage, existing energy systems can be enhanced without major new investments, thereby both improving performance and decreasing costs.
- Energy management. Smarter use of stored cooling energy reduces peak loads and provides better control over HVAC systems, resulting in more balanced energy consumption throughout the day.
- Scalability. The solution can be easily adapted and implemented in multiple stores, offering an efficient model for rolling out advanced energy storage systems in retail settings.
- Reduction in cooling demand during peak loads. By reducing the cooling demand, the system ensures stable cooling even on the hottest days.
- Reduction in total energy consumption. Significant cost savings have been achieved through reduced energy use.
- Sustainability. The project supports REMA 1000’s sustainability strategy by lowering energy consumption and reducing carbon emissions.
Seamless integration with existing refrigeration systems
Cartesian installed the Thermal Box technology as a flexible energy storage solution. The use of PCMs allows for load shifting. The system has been seamlessly integrated into the store’s existing CO2 refrigeration system and adapted to the current infrastructure.
The installation required minimal adjustments, enhancing the store’s optimization of its energy use without disrupting operations. By taking advantage of load shifting, the store uses energy more efficiently and depends less on external energy sources.
