A Strategic Shift Towards Resilience
By Cheryl Ashton, Marketing Coordinator, TSG UK
Cold food storage centres are among the most energy-intensive facilities in the UK. With refrigeration systems running around the clock to maintain strict temperature zones, even minor power disruptions can lead to spoilage, regulatory breaches and reputational damage. As energy prices rise and grid reliability becomes more uncertain, operators are under pressure to find smarter, more sustainable ways to power their operations.
Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels and battery energy storage systems (BESS) are emerging as strategic assets for cold storage companies. Far from being a green gesture, these technologies offer tangible commercial benefits, including cost control, operational resilience and long-term energy independence. When supported by high-voltage infrastructure and delivered through accredited Independent Connection Providers (ICPs), they form a robust energy ecosystem built for performance and longevity.
The Energy Challenge in Cold Storage
Cold storage centres typically consume between 60 and 85 kilowatt-hours per square foot annually, with refrigeration accounting for up to 80 percent of total energy use. Facilities must maintain temperatures as low as –18°C for frozen goods, with no margin for error. Many UK cold stores are decades old, relying on outdated refrigerants and inefficient insulation. Upgrading these systems is costly, but essential.
Electricity bills are a major concern. Operators face high demand charges, volatile tariffs and increasing pressure to decarbonise. Energy management is no longer a back-office function; it is central to business continuity and competitiveness
Image: Karolis Kavolelis
Solar PV: Turning Rooftops into Revenue
Cold storage centres are ideally suited to photovoltaic (PV) solar systems. Their large, flat rooftops offer ample space for high-capacity installations, while their daytime energy usage aligns perfectly with solar generation. By producing clean electricity on site, operators can reduce grid dependency, stabilise costs and improve their environmental credentials.
TSG Solar, a specialist in large-scale solar installations, designs and delivers bespoke PV systems for industrial clients. Each project begins with a detailed site assessment, including structural analysis, energy profiling and scalability planning. Systems are engineered to maximise output and return on investment, whether rooftop-mounted, ground-based or integrated into solar carports.
Solar carports are particularly relevant for cold storage sites with large vehicle fleets. These structures generate electricity while providing shade and shelter for vans and lorries, supporting fleet electrification and enhancing site aesthetics.
Battery Storage: Energy When It’s Needed Most
Solar power is most effective when paired with battery storage. BESS enables operators to store surplus electricity during daylight hours and use it overnight, during peak demand or in the event of a grid outage. For cold storage centres, this means uninterrupted refrigeration, even when the grid falters.
Battery systems also support peak shaving and load shifting, helping businesses avoid high tariffs and reduce strain on the grid. In simple terms, this means battery systems can store electricity when it’s cheap or when solar panels produce surplus power. Later, they release that stored energy when electricity prices are high or there is significant demand on the grid. Stored energy can be sold back to the network under schemes like the Smart Export Guarantee, creating new revenue streams.
TSG Solar delivers turnkey BESS solutions tailored to each site’s operational needs. Deep-cycle lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries are chosen for their durability and performance, providing steady energy flow over extended periods. Each installation is backed by feasibility studies, financial modelling and long-term maintenance packages to ensure reliability and compliance.
High-Voltage Connections: The Backbone of Resilience
Cold storage centres require robust electrical infrastructure to support refrigeration, automation and energy systems. High-voltage (HV) connections enable safe, efficient transmission from the grid to on-site distribution, ensuring continuity and scalability.
TSG provides end-to-end HV and medium-voltage (MV) systems, including switchgear, transformers and protection systems. As a fully accredited Independent Connection Provider (ICP), TSG operates under the National Electricity Registration Scheme (NERS), delivering contestable works in coordination with Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) and Independent Distribution Network Operators (IDNOs).
TSG manages grid applications, design approvals, civil works and energisation. This integrated approach reduces delays, improves cost control and ensures compliance with all regulatory standards.
Integrated Energy Hubs: Built for the Future
Forward-thinking operators are now combining solar PV, battery storage and Electric Vehicle (EV) charging into integrated energy hubs. These systems enable cold storage centres to generate, store and use electricity on-site, reducing exposure to grid volatility and supporting fleet electrification.
TSG’s consultative approach ensures that each hub is tailored to the client’s energy strategy. Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered platforms optimise energy use, predict demand and support dynamic pricing, turning infrastructure into a strategic asset.
Maintenance: Protecting the Investment
Infrastructure is only as good as its upkeep. TSG provides comprehensive service and maintenance programmes across all systems, including solar, BESS, HV and EV charging. Services include remote monitoring, diagnostics, emergency response and lifecycle planning.
Preventative maintenance is especially critical for refrigeration-dependent sites, where downtime can be catastrophic. TSG’s rapid-response teams and 24/7 support ensure peace of mind and protect long-term performance.
A Strategic Partner for Cold Storage Operators
TSG Solar is more than an energy contractor. It is a strategic partner for cold storage companies navigating the complexities of the UK’s energy transition. With deep technical expertise, certified credentials and a commitment to client success, TSG helps organisations decarbonise, decentralise and digitise their energy operations.
By investing in solar panels, battery storage and high-voltage infrastructure, cold storage centres can take control of their energy future. The benefits are clear: lower costs, greater resilience and a stronger position in a competitive market. With the right partner, the transition is not only achievable, it’s commercially rewarding and built to last.
