The Delbros Group of Companies, a leader in logistics solutions, has embraced sustainable energy practices with the launch of the country’s first solar-powered generators for refrigerated containers.
As one of the world’s pioneers running a comprehensive trial, the unit will be used in farms at different locations in the next few months as the technology is fine-tuned in preparation for a full roll-out.
This initiative was recently bared at the Dole Farm in Claveria, Misamis Oriental in collaboration with Dole Philippines Inc., a part of Dole Asia Pacific and owned by ITOCHU, USAID – Energy Secure Philippines (ESP), and Go Gridless.
The event showcased Delbros’ commitment to sustainability, reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy. The project features a solar-powered energy storage system using lithium batteries designed to replace traditional diesel generators. The innovation not only cuts reliance on fossil fuels but also enhances the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of cold chain logistics. With Dole Philippines Inc., Go Gridless and Delbros jointly pioneering the project, the larger goal is to impact the overall global supply chain logistics.
Jose Paolo L. Delgado, president and CEO of Delbros Group, provided a project overview highlighting its potential to revolutionize energy use in the logistics industry.
“This solar GenSet project embodies our commitment to sustainability and innovation. By harnessing solar energy, we are setting a new standard for environmental responsibility in logistics, and we are proud to lead this change not only in the Philippines but also across the region and around the world,” Delgado said.
“This project successfully demonstrates the application of renewable energy-based solutions to displace existing diesel power generators and offset approximately five hundred to seven hundred and fifty thousand pesos worth of fuel every month, fuel that is directly consumed by existing refrigerating containers,” said Dr. Matthew Kupchik, acting director of the USAID Philippines’ environment office.
The event was attended by various stakeholders, including representatives of USAID, Rafael Toda, Managing Director of Go Gridless, Tetsuya Kitae, SVP and General Manager of Dole Philippines Inc., Rachillie Lee, Supply and Distribution Manager of Dole Philippines Inc., and Simon Villalon, President of Good Greens + Co in a show of their continued and complete support for the newly launched project.
The event allowed attendees to get a glimpse of the technical setup of the solar gensets, as they saw how the system integrates seamlessly with existing refrigerated trailers. Key features include pre-installed battery packs charged via solar power at depots, which can be charged during the day or overnight, depending on delivery schedules. The retention of diesel generators as backup power sources ensures operational reliability.
The new system promises significant economic benefits, including reduced diesel consumption and maintenance costs. Enhanced remote monitoring capabilities will improve decision-making and operational efficiency, further solidifying Delbros’ position as an innovator in the logistics sector.
While the solar gensets are under testing and development, their potential success could lead to similar applications for heavy equipment like forklifts, creating a ripple effect that enhances both local and global operations.
