Transition to 3-Phase
Reduce Energy Costs
Reduced Carbon Footprint
Create Farm Efficiencies
DeBondt Oganic Dairy
DeBondt Organic Dairy, a leading figure in the Australian dairy sector, was grappling with significant energy consumption and cost challenges.
With a herd of 550 cows, the dairy’s cooling station, which is vital for maintaining milk quality, was contributing to exorbitant energy bills, rendering the operation both financially and environmentally unsustainable.
In addition to cooling, the dairy faced high irrigation costs for three months of the year, further straining its resources during peak operational periods.
Compounding these issues, the dairy’s energy consumption, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh) per kilogram of milk produced, was notably above the industry average for non-organic dairies, exposing inefficiencies within its energy set-up.
This energy burden not only affected profitability but also threatened the dairy’s commitment to sustainable practices.
Solution
Battery
Installation of a 128 kW(peak) solar panel system coupled with a 115 kWh REDEI Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) designed to meet a significant portion of the dairy’s energy needs.
Irrigation Upgrade
Implement a variable frequency drive (VFD) and integrate it with the solar system to optimise water usage and reduce costs.
Load Management Improvements
Achieved 56% of the load met by renewable energy, significant annual grid energy spend reduction, voltage optimisation, and an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). The solution also enabled the irrigation system to run on a blend of excess solar and grid energy, enhancing efficiency.
Benefits
The REDEI project delivered substantial benefits to DeBondt Organic Dairy, ranging from increased sustainability, higher quality energy on demand, equipment upgrades and lower costs.
Security of Energy Supply
Improved reliability and security in energy provision, crucial for continuous operation.
Step Towards Sustainability
Made signifcant steps towards becoming self-sustainable and reducing their carbon footprint.
Conclusion
The collaboration between DeBondt Organic Dairy and REDEI marks a groundbreaking advancement in integrating renewable energy within the Australian dairy industry. Through this partnership, DeBondt successfully improved its operational efficiency by addressing two critical areas: soaring energy bills and inefficient irrigation practices. More importantly, this collaboration symbolises a significant shift toward sustainability and self-sufficiency in dairy farming.
At the heart of this initiative is the REDEI BESS Coolroom project, a shining example of how renewable energy can revolutionise agriculture. This project not only reduced DeBondt’s reliance on traditional power sources but also enhanced the dairy’s overall performance, serving as a blueprint for other farms grappling with similar challenges. The collaboration showcases how cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions can drive down costs while improving energy efficiency.
DeBondt and REDEI have demonstrated a model that other dairy companies can follow, fostering the adoption of renewable energy for higher-quality power and reduced operational expenses, ultimately paving the way for a more sustainable and profitable future for the dairy sector.
