Müller Milk & Ingredients is pioneering sustainable technologies to reduce its HGV fleet’s carbon footprint.
- The company is trialling solar panels and kinetic energy systems to power refrigerated HGV trailers.
- In collaboration with Sunswap, Müller is testing a system that collects clean energy from solar panels to power trailers.
- Partnering with Carrier Transicold, Müller explores a kinetic energy solution converting axle and brake energy into electricity.
- These advancements aim to maintain high service standards while significantly reducing carbon emissions.
Müller Milk & Ingredients is at the forefront of sustainable transportation initiatives within the food industry. By testing innovative technologies such as solar and kinetic energy systems, Müller is actively reducing the environmental impact of its heavy goods vehicle (HGV) fleet. The primary goal is to replace diesel-powered refrigeration systems with alternatives that significantly lower carbon emissions, showcasing Müller’s commitment to sustainability.
The collaborative effort with Sunswap focuses on harnessing solar energy to power refrigerated trailers. This approach involves the installation of solar panels which collect clean energy to provide 100% of the power needed for operating the refrigeration units. The potential savings are remarkable, with the Sunswap system expected to save approximately 3,700 litres of diesel and reduce carbon output by nine tonnes per trailer annually.
Additionally, Müller is working with Carrier Transicold to trial a kinetic energy-based refrigeration system. This system, known as Vector eCool, utilises the energy generated by the trailer’s axle and brakes. The kinetic energy is transformed into electricity stored in a battery pack, which then powers the refrigeration unit. This innovation entirely eliminates the carbon emissions associated with traditional diesel auxiliary engines.
These trials are not just about reducing emissions; they are about ensuring that Müller can maintain exceptional service and product quality. According to Dan Hamby, Head of Distribution at Müller, the company aims to balance eco-friendly practices with maintaining their industry-leading standards. Each refrigerated trailer has the capacity to transport up to 8,000 bottles of milk, making temperature control and punctual deliveries essential.
Müller’s initiative reflects a strategic approach of ‘test, learn, and innovate’, aiming for solutions that are both sustainable and scalable. As part of this approach, Müller continues to explore and implement advancements that promise a reduced environmental footprint while sustaining the high levels of customer satisfaction that are expected in 2023.
Müller’s trials in renewable energy for HGV refrigeration exemplify a pivotal move towards sustainable practices without compromising quality.
