The development of dynamic energy control mechanisms for food retailing refrigeration systems

The National Grid is operating under a very narrow generating margin of 5%. Network distribution

infrastructure is aging and expensive to replace. The Grid is being challenged by an ever increasing input of

renewable generation systems which do not provide a consistent load. To stablise the Grid it is now a strategic

priority to develop markets which help the Grid control demand as well as supply, so called demand side

responses (DSR). However, large scale demonstration projects are required to establish industry interest and

confidence in DSR mechanisms. In this demonstration we will develop and deliver systems which can enable

food retailing refrigeration systems to be linked to DSR tariffs. This is a challenging project as food retailers are

typically operating massive networks of machines distributed throuhgout the UK. Any changes to refrigerator

operational perfromance must also be conducted without infringing or jeopardising food safety. However, safe

delivery of DSR to food refrigeration systems could have significant impact. The cold chain in the UK is currently

thought to consume 14% of all electricity generated.