Innovation Toward Sustainability Applied to a CO2 Refrigeration System Using Renewables—Solar, Wind, and Tidal Energy

Arian Semedo () and João Garcia
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Arian Semedo: ISEL, Polytechnic University of Lisbon
João Garcia: UnIRE, ISEL, Polytechnic University of Lisbon

Chapter 12 in Challenges and Innovation Opportunities in the Context of Sustainability, Industries 4.0 and 5.0, 2026, pp 159-171 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract This article describes the impact of innovation solutions in a sustainability world, focusing on four feasible alternatives for an integrated refrigerated cold storage system for fish preservation. These alternatives range from integrated systems relying on grid electricity to autonomous systems generating electricity from renewable sources, incorporating various refrigeration facility configurations. The study aims to evaluate the energy efficiency, financial feasibility, and environmental impact of different solutions. Solution A utilizes two R134a refrigeration units powered by the public grid, while Solution B employs a transcritical CO2 system supported by grid electricity. Solution C integrates CO2 refrigeration with autonomous renewable energy, and Solution D utilizes CO2 for refrigeration with seawater heat exchange and autonomous renewable energy sources. Results indicate that Solution D is the most favorable, achieving a 5-year return on investment. The autonomous electricity production in Solution D reduces emissions by 95%. Despite an initial investment of €769 172.00, Solution C demonstrates financial viability, contributing to energy sustainability. Furthermore, this autonomous production reduces emissions by 360,697 kg CO2 compared to conventional systems, emphasizing the positive impact of local renewable energy integration.

Keywords: CO2; Renewable energy; Sustainable refrigeration (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:spr:prbchp:978-3-032-16432-2_12

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DOI: 10.1007/978-3-032-16432-2_12

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