FAQs

Thermal Energy Storage (TES) allows cold stores to store cooling capacity during low-cost, low-ambient periods and release it during peak demand. This reduces compressor runtime, lowers energy bills, and stabilises temperatures. Glacier Storage uses advanced PCM’s to maximise these benefits without requiring major system changes or maintenance.

PCM’s absorb and release thermal energy as they change phase (from solid to liquid and back). In cold storage, PCM’s freeze during off-peak periods, storing large amounts of cold energy. When temperatures rise, the PCM’s melt and release this stored cool energy, helping refrigeration systems maintain stable temperatures with less mechanical effort.

Yes. PCM’s significantly reduce compressor runtime by providing passive cooling during high-load periods. Most facilities see energy savings of around 10–25%, depending on climate, load profile, and system configuration.

Glacier Storage solutions help operators shift cooling to cheaper night-time tariffs and reduce peak-hour energy use. This typically leads to double-digit percentage savings, with many sites achieving 30–50% reductions in electricity costs.

PCM’s act as a true thermal battery without the drawbacks of electrical batteries. They last for decades without degradation, require no maintenance, produce no fire risks, and avoid energy losses associated with electrical charge/discharge cycles. PCM’s are more cost-effective and purpose-built for cold-chain efficiency.

Yes. By lowering compressor cycling and reducing runtime, PCM’s can potentially decrease wear and stress on mechanical components. This can extend equipment life, reduce maintenance costs, and improve reliability, especially during high ambient temperatures.

Glacier Storage solutions are designed for simple retrofitting into standard pallet racking or within existing cooling systems. Our modular Glacier Core Modules and Glacier Panel’s require no structural changes and work alongside your current refrigeration setup.

Absolutely. PCM’s maintain tighter temperature control by absorbing heat infiltration and reducing temperature fluctuations. This protects food quality, prevents micro-thawing, and ensures compliance with strict cold-chain standards.

Yes. Glacier Storage can be charged using excess solar PV energy, allowing facilities to maximise on-site renewable generation. PCM’s function as long-duration thermal batteries, storing cooling rather than electricity for maximum efficiency and cost savings.

Glacier Storage offers PCM’s across a wide temperature range, from deep-freeze applications (–40°C and below) to chilled environments (0–10°C). Each PCM is engineered to freeze and melt at precise temperatures for reliable performance.

Yes. Our systems are specifically engineered for frozen and deep-freeze facilities, where energy use is highest and efficiency gains are most impactful.

PCM’s have an exceptionally long life expectancy, typically 20–30+ years, with negligible performance degradation. Unlike lithium-ion batteries, PCM’s maintain consistent performance over countless freeze / thaw cycles.

No. Glacier Storage solutions contain no moving parts, meaning zero routine maintenance is required. Once installed, PCM’s operate passively within your refrigeration system.

Yes. PCM’s store cold energy when tariffs are lowest and release it during expensive peak hours. This reduces compressor load and helps avoid high demand charges.

Installation is simple and non-disruptive. Depending on racking layout and system size, most Glacier Storage installations can be completed in 1–3 days with no downtime.

Yes. Our PCM’s are sealed, non-toxic, food-safe, and fully compliant with global cold-chain regulations, making them ideal for food storage, pharmaceuticals, and medical logistics.

By reducing energy consumption, lowering reliance on peak grid electricity, and enabling renewable integration, PCM’s significantly reduce CO₂ emissions and help organisations meet their sustainability targets.

Yes. Our GlacierPack and GlacierFlex PCM products provide passive thermal control for vans, trucks, containers, and insulated boxes. These are ideal for food delivery and pharmaceutical distribution.

Return on investment is typically 3-5 years, depending on tariff structure, climate, operational hours, and load profile. Sites with high peak-time energy costs see the fastest payback.

Yes. Glacier Storage provides bespoke PCM formulations, custom frame solutions, and tailored system integrations for unique cold-storage requirements.