|
Images by Cold Link Africa
One such solution is the use of solar-powered refrigeration systems in place of traditional diesel-powered systems . NextDrive , a leading provider of refrigerated transport solutions , has been at the forefront of this green revolution in South Africa . By fitting refrigerated trucks with solar panels , the company has been able to significantly reduce carbon emissions while
|
Warren Hurter , co-founder and technical director of solar refrigeration transport business NextDrive . |
ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of perishable goods .
Warren Hurter , co-founder and technical director of solar refrigeration transport business NextDrive , discusses the efficiency of solar-powered refrigeration in contrast to traditional systems powered by diesel motors . “ Such systems boast efficiencies exceeding 90 %, compared to traditional engines maxing out at around 25 %, in addition , the reduction in moving parts contributes to lower maintenance requirements .”
Hurter says : “ Our primary focus is the transport sector : my background traces back to the University of Johannesburg where I was involved in the development of solar-powered racing cars – a venture that laid the foundation for our journey . Fast forward to the present ; we started as consultants for ShopRite Checkers , assisting them in exploring the feasibility of running their trailers ' refrigeration units on trucks using a solar system instead of conventional fuel . After conceptualising the idea , we not only proposed it but also took the initiative to implement it for them . That marked the inception of our business .
“ Six years down the line , we manage 1 600 of their trailers , offering comprehensive services covering refrigeration , security and more . In essence , our focus revolves around three core areas : solar logistics , solar
|
NextDrive workshop .
refrigeration , and commercial solar . These areas define our expertise and commitment as we strive to contribute to a sustainable and eco-friendly future ."
He highlights the significance of batteries and inverters . “ While the system design is relatively simple – mirroring a residential setup – the challenge with a transportation system lies in intelligently packaging it in a vehicle with its inherent exposure to rough conditions on roads , as well as to
|
enable remote monitoring , and address safety considerations during accidents . The company imports key hardware components , rigorously testing and proofing them through multiple concepts to ensure quality .”
Ensuring the quality of imported components is a critical aspect of the process . Its approach involves conducting multiple proof of concepts and selecting hardware based on factors like durability , longevity and strength . Suppliers ,
|