Reducing energy consumption in cold stores using a freely available mathematical model

The ICE-E model is a user-friendly tool that allows cold store operators to predict the energy consumption of their stores as heat loads vary due to changes in ambient conditions and store usage patterns. Weather data and construction and usage details are used to predict heat load and refrigeration COP on an hourly basis over a whole year. The model was validated against the industry standard CoolPack model and the features of the models were compared. The ICE-E model is better suited to non-technical cold store users who may not know details such as U-values, air change rates, respiration rates, condensing and evaporating temperatures, and it has additional features such as the ability to change efficiencies of lights and fans. It can help users to identify which cold store features and operating parameters have the greatest impact on energy consumption, and assess the scope for measures aimed at reducing it.