Cooling Energy Cost
In addition to electricity, solar energy, organic gas, and wind energy are also used in cooling. However, since electricity can fully meet the demand and does not require an investment cost, it is the most commonly used energy source. Today, with developing technologies, the energy cost of cold storage has become extremely economical.
For example, in a modern and large warehouse, the annual cold storage cost of 1 kilo of apples is approximately 0.01 USD.
Food Pyramid
Today, more than 70% of consumed foods are stored in cold storage facilities, and this rate is continuously increasing. You can simply check the refrigerators in your homes.
Importance of Cooling on Food
The secret behind developed countries, which stand out with their quality of life, ensuring food security lies in developing storage culture and completing the necessary infrastructure for it. Agricultural development is directly proportional to the ratio of total cold storage volume to population in countries.
In agriculturally developed countries, on average 1m³ of cold storage space is available per 3 people, while in the Netherlands it is 1m³ per person, in Turkey 1m³ per 11 people, and in African countries 1m³ per 1,000 people.
Apple Waste
One of the biggest problems faced by humanity is food waste. Unfortunately, our planet experiences a large amount of food waste. This situation causes not only a huge economic loss but also prevents many people from having adequate nutrition. For example, 1 out of every 5 apples produced globally goes to waste. This equals a total of 15 million tons of apples per year. In other words, 600,000 truckloads of apples, with a market value of 30 billion USD, are thrown away every year.
The most effective way to prevent food waste is to store food under proper conditions.
As Cantek, we believe that continuous access to healthy food, which is the most basic human need and right, should no longer be a problem, and we are working towards this goal.
Impact of Food Storage on Product Prices
Regions with sufficient cold storage facilities under ideal storage conditions keep food supply and food prices stable throughout the year. Thus, both producers and consumers benefit.
Machine Investment vs Electricity Consumption
Today, the investment cost of a cooling machine with 30 HP power is approximately €15,000, while the annual energy consumption exceeds about 135,000 KW, which corresponds to €20,000 (calculated at 0.15€/kWh). With today’s increasing energy costs, it is clear that annual electricity consumption surpasses the initial investment cost.
