TIP Group and GreenChill launch Zero-Capex solar reefer retrofit
TIP Group has partnered with GreenChill Systems to bring sustainable refrigeration to temperature-controlled transport operators. The retrofit solution needs no upfront capital outlay. Operators can cut emissions without buying new refrigerated trailers.
The partnership gives operators access to the latest alternatively fuelled refrigeration technology. They do not pay upfront for the system itself. They also avoid investing in new trailers, because engineers fit the system to reefers already in operation.
GreenChill calls its technology ‘solar-electric’. An onboard battery powers the temperature control of the trailer’s existing refrigeration unit. The mains grid charges that battery, and an array of solar panels on the trailer roof adds supplementary charge. The panels generate power during daylight hours, whether the trailer is parked or moving. This extends the refrigeration runtime.
The trailer keeps its diesel refrigeration unit as a backup. The system switches to it automatically if, say, an operator misses a charging opportunity or changes route at the last minute. Temperature control therefore continues without interruption.
Integrated telematics give operators real-time visibility of energy generation and consumption. They also show CO2 emission savings, financial savings and GPS location, plus other useful reports.
TIP also trains drivers and fleet teams as part of the solution. The training covers charging procedures, state-of-charge checks and best-practice plug-in habits. Operators can then get the most from the system.
Operators can specify the system on brand new assets. However, its ease of retrofit to reefers already in the fleet offers instant access to the latest sustainable refrigeration technology. Operators do not necessarily need to invest in replacement trailers.
TIP leases the GreenChill system on a monthly cost basis. This removes the barriers often associated with adopting such technology. Operators can move towards a more decarbonised refrigerated fleet with confidence.
TIP’s ‘try-before-you-hire’ scheme offers further encouragement. It lets operators sample the GreenChill system within their own transport operation for a period. They experience the cost-saving and environmental benefits first-hand, and they make no long-term commitment.
Lucy Crofts, Operations Manager at GreenChill Systems, said: “We are delighted with our partnership with TIP Group, whose innovative approach is helping make sustainable refrigeration accessible to transport operators. Together, we are demonstrating that businesses do not need to wait to begin their sustainability journey or make significant upfront investments to achieve meaningful carbon reductions. By combining GreenChill’s solar-electric refrigeration technology with TIP’s flexible leasing and trial options, operators can start reducing emissions immediately while also benefiting from fuel cost savings from day one. It is a practical, low-risk route to decarbonisation that delivers both environmental and commercial advantages.”
Mark Carlin, Fleet & Engineering Director at TIP Group, said: “By combining GreenChill’s retrofit solar electric system with TIP’s e-reefer trials, operators can experience the technology within their existing fleets without any upfront investment or long term commitment. It removes the cost and uncertainty that typically slow adoption and gives customers real world evidence of how the system performs. The GreenChill solution is one of several low and zero emission refrigeration technologies available via TIP, alongside solutions from other manufacturers, including battery & solar-powered and energy-recuperation axle technologies. Whatever the technology, the process provides a straightforward, commercially sensible route to reducing emissions, and it aligns perfectly with our mission to make zero and low emission refrigerated technology accessible and practical for operators.”
