Coolcare Milk Chilling Programme Reduces Emissions on Fonterra Farms
In a groundbreaking partnership under the Pay-As-You-Save (PAUS) Programme, Coolcare and Fonterra are transforming milk refrigeration on farms across New Zealand, achieving significant energy savings and emission reductions. Since its inception, the initiative has enabled the installation of approximately 50 state-of-the-art milk chilling units, collectively avoiding an estimated 5,800 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions.
Innovative Milk Chilling Technology
At the heart of this initiative is Coolcare’s VariCool milk chilling system. This technology leverages advanced fourth-generation refrigerants, which offer an 80% reduction in CO2e impact compared to conventional systems. Through a collaborative leasing model supported by Purpose Capital, New Zealand Green Investment Finance, and Cool-Safe, the PAUS Programme provides Fonterra farmers with an accessible, eco-friendly alternative to traditional refrigeration methods.
Benefits Felt on the Ground
Farmers are already reaping the rewards of this revolutionary system. Joe and Becky Laming of Altavady Group reported saving $972 in electricity and hot water generation costs within 30 days of installation. Similarly, Bruce Murphy of Murphy Farms highlighted the flexibility of the seven-year leasing option, which ensures compatibility with future technological advancements.
Driving Sustainability in Dairy
The programme has gained traction among flagship projects like Fonterra and Nestlé’s Net Zero Pilot Dairy Farm in Taranaki, further underscoring its impact on sustainability. Anne Douglas, Fonterra’s Group Director of Farm Source, noted that the initiative is setting a new benchmark for environmental responsibility in dairy farming.
“The PAUS Programme is delivering tangible benefits for our farmers while making a growing positive impact on the environment,” said Douglas.
Scaling for the Future
With demand surging, Coolcare CEO Allan Steele emphasized plans to scale up production at the company’s Hamilton facility. “We’re thrilled by the results so far and excited to expand this transformative technology to more farms, further reducing emissions and enhancing efficiency,” said Steele.
Setting a Global Standard
As more farmers join the PAUS Programme, this collaboration serves as a blueprint for integrating innovative technologies that align economic efficiency with environmental sustainability. By combining cutting-edge refrigeration systems with accessible financing, Coolcare and Fonterra are reshaping the future of dairy farming in New Zealand and beyond.
Farmers interested in participating in the PAUS Programme can register online through Fonterra’s Farm Source platform, taking a pivotal step toward greener, more cost-efficient operations.
This partnership not only highlights the potential for innovative technology to address global climate challenges but also solidifies New Zealand’s leadership in sustainable agriculture.
