Solar project melting away energy costs for Sydney cold storage facility
Solar Panels Help Sydney Storage Facility Cut Power Bills by 40%
A storage facility in Sydney, N.S., is seeing significant savings on its power bill thanks to the installation of solar panels. Eskasoni Cold Logistics, which stores frozen, cold, and dry goods ranging from satellite dishes to blueberries, primarily focuses on frozen fish products. The recent addition of over 1,300 ground-mounted solar panels, funded through a government initiative, is offsetting up to 40% of the facility’s energy use.
Co-owner Jim Gillis expressed his satisfaction with using natural sunlight to generate power, highlighting the environmental benefits of the project. The partnership between Eskasoni First Nation and Natural Forces Solar, an independent renewable energy producer, made the solar panel installation possible under Nova Scotia’s Green Choice Program.
The 583-kilowatt solar system, representing a $1.85 million investment, received contributions from various sources, including Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada, Eskasoni, the province, and Efficiency Nova Scotia. Steve Parsons, CEO of Eskasoni’s corporate division, emphasized the positive impact of the project on the facility’s operational costs.
With the capacity to store millions of kilograms of frozen fish products and over a hundred thousand kilograms of live lobster, Eskasoni Cold Logistics requires a substantial amount of energy to maintain specific temperatures. The solar energy project is expected to save the facility 35 to 40% on its energy expenses, translating to approximately $8,000 per month.
Moreover, the initiative has created employment opportunities within the community, with ten band members trained as certified solar panel installers. Gillis, who also manages Live Stor Sydney from the facility, noted the immediate efficiency improvements resulting from the solar system’s activation.
While the facility still relies on Nova Scotia Power for a portion of its energy needs, Parsons is optimistic about future clean energy prospects. Gillis echoed this sentiment, recognizing the growing trend of solar panel installations and emphasizing the importance of embracing sustainable energy solutions.
The successful integration of solar panels at Eskasoni Cold Logistics underscores the potential for businesses to reduce operating costs and environmental impact through renewable energy initiatives.
