Reducing Milk Spoilage through Solar Powered Milk Chilling

India

Promethean Power Systems' refrigeration solution utilizes a thermal energy battery pack that charges on solar power and/or a few hours of grid electricity. This technology provides continuous cold storage despite inconsistent electricity access, addressing the spoilage issue of perishable foods like milk in remote villages. By reducing reliance on diesel generators, it offers both economic and environmental benefits.

Project Stage

Scaling

Implementation time

1-3 years

Last update: October 05, 2023

Overview Contributors

Challenge

In India, $10 billion worth of perishable foods are wasted annually because of unreliable cold-chain supply networks. A major obstacle in setting up cold chain networks is the lack of reliable electricity to run refrigeration systems in villages and farming areas. Diesel generators are often used to provide electricity for milk chilling, which incurs high operating costs and has a negative environmental impact.

Description

Promethean Power Systems' solution involves refrigeration systems with a thermal energy battery pack charged by solar power and/or grid electricity. This allows dairy processors to keep milk cold in remote areas, reducing the time milk is unchilled by 75%. The system is designed and deployed in collaboration with India's largest private dairy and a leading solar installer. Promethean Power Systems also collaborates with Hatsun Agro and Orb Energy for manufacturing and deployment.

SDGs

Outcomes

- Deployed and commissioned over 100 milk chillers without needing diesel generators. - Reduced milk spoilage by ensuring continuous cold storage. - Lowered operating costs and environmental impact by eliminating diesel generators.