Australia’s food manufacturing sector is entering a new era of opportunity and challenge. With energy prices on the rise and sustainability targets tightening, manufacturers are searching for smarter ways to power their operations, and one solution is quickly gaining ground: battery storage.
How do batteries work?
Batteries provide on-site energy storage, allowing businesses to store electricity for use when it’s needed most. By reducing reliance on electricity from the grid, batteries give manufacturers more control over when and how they use energy and support the storage and integration of low-cost renewables.
Why batteries make sense for food manufacturers
Food manufacturing is energy intensive. From refrigeration and processing to packaging and distribution, every step relies on a steady, affordable power supply. But with wholesale electricity prices fluctuating throughout the day, staying in control of costs is crucial, especially during peak demand periods in the mornings and evenings.
By charging up when grid prices are low, typically when there’s an abundance of renewable energy like solar in the grid, manufacturers can store this cheaper, cleaner power for later use.
When prices spike, instead of drawing expensive electricity from the grid, businesses can tap into their stored energy, driving down costs and reducing exposure to wholesale market volatility.
Benefits of batteries for food manufacturers
1. Cost savings
Batteries can help manufacturers avoid high prices by discharging stored energy for use during peak periods. This can lead to significant savings on electricity bills, especially for operations running around the clock.
2. Operational reliability
Power interruptions can be costly, risking spoilage or production delays. Batteries can be configured to provide backup during outages or grid instability, keeping critical equipment like refrigeration, processing lines, and climate control running smoothly.
3. Sustainability targets
Storing and using low-cost renewable energy, while avoiding peak periods where grid generation typically comes from a higher proportion of fossil fuels, can help manufacturers reduce carbon emissions. This can support sustainability goals and provide a point of difference for environmentally conscious customers and supply chain partners.
4. Future-proofing
Australia’s energy market is rapidly changing. Having on-site battery storage ensures your business can adapt as the market evolves; whether it’s participating in demand response programs or earning revenue from grid support services.
Real-world impact: food manufacturing in action
Forward-thinking food manufacturers are already seeing the benefits. By using batteries to power refrigeration, processing, and packaging equipment during price spikes, businesses are cutting costs and maximising existing renewable energy assets.
These smart strategies are helping manufacturers turn energy into opportunity in today’s changing market.
Ready to find the right battery solution for your food manufacturing company?
Partnering with an experienced energy provider like Flow Power can help you find the right solution tailored to your needs – unlocking savings, boosting sustainability, and powering your business into the future.
Speak to a Flow Power specialist today at 1300 08 06 08 or visit the website here.