Sonae MC, in collaboration with RACE, implemented the “Trevo” project, aimed at the sustained reduction of electricity costs across Sonae’s nationwide store network.

The technical team at SISTAVAC developed and implemented a mechanism that identifies the optimal operating point of the refrigeration system to maximize overall efficiency, thereby reducing energy consumption.

The solution, applied in 142 stores, has a wide operational scope, enabling the dynamic optimization of the entire refrigeration system in large retail areas at a fraction of the cost.

During the Trevo project, the control systems of the refrigeration plants in the various stores were automatically adjusted according to external weather conditions and the requirements of the refrigeration units.

Devices were installed in the refrigeration units to provide more accurate temperature data to the thermostats of the refrigeration systems, allowing energy savings while maintaining food integrity.

The Trevo project enabled Sonae to improve energy efficiency and reduce its environmental footprint, achieving savings of €4 million between 2010 and 2013. Sonae invested €4.5 million, with a payback period of 5 years.