Cut Costs and Go Green: How CO2 Refrigerants Work Smarter

Refrigeration systems are the true workhorses of the grocery store: Unlike other technologies that power down at the end of the day, cooling systems run constantly to keep food fresh. Between running nonstop and losing cold air each time a customer opens a freezer door or a display case, it comes as no surprise that commercial refrigeration accounts for a large portion of grocery retailers’ energy consumption—about 40% to 60%, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  

In addition to environmental concerns, high demands for electricity can come at a financial cost, too; the EPA reports that retailers spend nearly $20 billion on energy each year.

Effective refrigeration systems are a non-negotiable for grocery retailers. Fortunately, however, energy-efficient technologies can change the game for grocers looking to keep their costs low and their carbon footprint small. Natural refrigerants, such as CO2 systems, can help retailers reduce their energy consumption while maximizing performance.

Consumers call for sustainability

As more consumers make sustainable living a priority, environmentally friendly retail practices become increasingly effective in deciding where consumers shop. A January 2020 study from Forager reported that 29% of consumers are looking for foods with a lower carbon footprint, and a 2020 report from New York University’s Center for Sustainable Business in partnership with IRI found that sustainability-marketed products were responsible for 54.7% of the growth in consumer packaged goods from 2015 to 2019, and this growth has continued even amid the pandemic.

For retailers looking to leverage the benefits of going green, switching to natural refrigerants such as CO2 and compatible technologies from Hussmann is an excellent option. With no ozone depletion potential and a very low global warming potential, Hussmann natural refrigerants reduce the environmental impact of commercial refrigeration systems as compared to standard industrial chemicals—and they offer great performance, too.

Efficiency cuts costs

Marketing advantages aside, efficient refrigeration systems help reduce grocery retailers’ costs. The EPA reports that a 10% reduction in energy costs for the average supermarket is equivalent to increasing net profit margins by 16%.

The Hussmann Purity Transcritical CO2 System offers superior energy efficiency, outperforming many other CO2 refrigerants and other traditional refrigeration alternatives even in the hottest climates. Each Purity system is specially designed with precise line sizing to limit pressure losses, increase efficiency and enhance performance, and systems are available in both standard and custom designs to fit each grocer’s floor plan and consumer base perfectly.

Between outstanding performance and cost-saving technologies, Hussmann CO2 refrigeration systems make it a little easier—and more rewarding—being green. To learn more about natural refrigerant solutions from Hussmann, visit www.hussmann.com.  ​