Energy cost reduction by 14.7% in 'Świeży Skład' warehouse in 11 weeks
For the regional food wholesaler 'Świeży Skład', we conducted a comprehensive energy audit and proposed changes that quickly reduced bills. We implemented solutions concerning LED lighting, cooling optimization, and consumption monitoring. The entire project lasted 11 weeks. The effect is a 14.7% saving on annual energy costs, which for the company meant over 12,500 PLN annually. This is concrete money that stays with the company.
The food wholesaler 'Świeży Skład' from Ełk had a problem with rising electricity costs. They were looking for a solution that would provide real savings without a major renovation. Our team from Podlaska Symbioza Biznesu proposed and implemented concrete changes.
The challenge
Before our intervention, 'Świeży Skład' consumed an average of 45,670 kWh of electricity per month. Electricity bills were one of the largest fixed operating costs, exceeding 8,500 PLN each month. Old fluorescent lighting consumed a lot of electricity and required replacement every 3-4 months, generating additional expenses for maintenance and disposal. There was also a lack of precise consumption monitoring in individual zones, which made it difficult to identify the largest 'energy eaters'. Cooling systems, crucial for product freshness, operated continuously, without optimization for varying loads and external temperatures. In two warehouses, a constant temperature difference between the upper and lower zones of 3.2°C was recorded, indicating poor circulation and inefficient cooling. In short – money was escaping, and no one knew exactly where.
Our approach
We started with a thorough energy audit in three warehouse halls and the wholesaler's offices. For 7 days, we collected energy consumption data from various points, using specialized meters. We checked every element: from lighting, through cooling installations, to small office devices. Our specialist, Tomasz Niewęgłowski, personally analyzed daily reports, looking for illogical consumption spikes. Next, we met with the management of 'Świeży Skład'. No beating around the bush, we presented our conclusions and a concrete action plan. Remember, Podlaska Symbioza Biznesu focuses on action. Instead of generalities, we showed them a table with predicted savings for each proposed change. We focused on solutions that would quickly bring results, with a clearly indicated return on investment period.
The solution
We implemented a complete replacement of lighting with modern LED panels. In total, we installed 147 new fixtures, with motion sensors in less frequently used areas. This reduced electricity consumption for lighting by 62.3%. In the cooling systems, we installed intelligent controllers that dynamically regulate the operation of the aggregates depending on the current external and internal temperature and the delivery schedule. Additionally, we sealed 12 cold room doors, where we detected leaks totaling 0.4 sq m. We also introduced an electricity consumption monitoring system with a breakdown into 8 main circuits. From now on, 'Świeży Skład' can see in real-time how much electricity each section consumes.
Results
Thanks to our actions, 'Świeży Skład' reduced annual energy costs by 14.7%, which translates into concrete savings of 12,730 PLN. The temperature stability in the warehouses also improved, which reduces the risk of product spoilage. The entire investment paid for itself in less than 23 months. Specifics matter, and these numbers speak for themselves. The company gained not only financially but also in terms of image, showing that it cares for the environment.
Timeline
-
March 2024First meeting and detailed energy audit at the warehouse.
-
April 2024Data analysis and presentation of proposed changes to the 'Świeży Skład' management.
-
April 2024Start of installation works: LED lighting replacement, sensor installation.
-
May 2024Implementation of intelligent controllers for cooling systems and sealing.
-
June 2024Launch of monitoring system, staff training and final measurements.
"At first, I was skeptical because we already had other offers. But Podlaska Symbioza Biznesu came with a concrete plan and numbers. After 11 weeks, our bills are 14.7% lower. It simply pays off for us."