Solar refrigeration savings calculator
Estimate annual kWh, USD, diesel and CO₂ savings from adding PV + battery storage to a refrigeration plant. Sizing, CAPEX and payback in one page.
Standard engineering assumptions
Estimates Only: This calculator is provided for general informational purposes only. Results are approximate and may contain errors, omissions, or outdated information. They do not constitute legal, financial, engineering, tax, technical, or professional advice. Users are solely responsible for independently verifying all calculations, specifications, prices, regulations, and requirements with qualified professionals before making any decisions. By using this calculator, you acknowledge that the website owners, operators, and affiliates accept no responsibility or liability for any loss, damage, or decisions resulting from its use.
What's next — recommended for your result
Why: Your load and PV share suit a DC-inverter or hybrid solar chiller architecture.
FAQ
How does the calculator estimate PV size?
PV kWp = (annual refrigeration kWh × PV share target) ÷ climate-specific yield (1,200 / 1,600 / 1,900 kWh per installed kWp). It assumes a modern grid-tied inverter, 15% system losses and a well-oriented roof or ground-mount.
What CAPEX benchmarks are used?
USD 850/kWp installed for PV (module + inverter + BOS + installation) and USD 350/kWh for LFP battery storage. Adjust with the scenario selector: optimistic (−15%), base, pessimistic (+20%).
Is this enough for a bankable feasibility study?
No — this is an order-of-magnitude study for pre-feasibility, budgeting and lender briefings. For bankable, you need on-site load metering, PVsyst simulation, geotechnical, and detailed grid-code analysis. ColdMatch can run this study through vetted engineering partners.
How is CO₂ avoided calculated?
kWh displaced × 0.45 kg CO₂/kWh (global grid average). Diesel displaced × 2.68 kg CO₂/L. Actual values depend on grid mix — MENA / SSA hybrids typically save 50–80% more per kWh than an EU grid average.
Can PV realistically cover a 24/7 refrigeration load?
60–80% renewable fraction is achievable with a PV+BESS hybrid and grid or diesel backup. Higher fractions (85–95%) need oversized PV plus 12–24 h storage — CAPEX rises sharply. The tool caps PV share at 90% to reflect this.
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