Canola oil producer goes solar
Australian renewable energy retailer Flow Power has recently activated its largest behind-the-meter initiative, a 2.8MW solar farm, to supply power to major canola oil producer Riverina Oils.
Owned and operated by Flow Power, the solar farm will directly power the Riverina Oils oilseed crushing and refining plant through an underground 11kV cable.
Renewable Energy for Sustainable Production
The Riverina Oils Energy Project, situated adjacent to the company’s Bomen plant established in 2013, boasts a crushing capacity of 200,000 tonnes of oilseed annually.
It yields over 80,000 tonnes of refined vegetable oil for the food industry and 120,000 tonnes of canola protein meal for poultry, dairy, and animal feed sectors.
Empowering Operations with Solar Energy
Flow Power and Riverina Oils affirm that the solar project now fulfils 100 per cent of the plant’s power requirements.
Andrew Jackson, CEO of Riverina Oils, highlighted the strategic significance of investing in solar power amidst escalating energy expenses in manufacturing.
He expressed, “Through our collaboration with Flow Power, Riverina Oils has effectively trimmed operational costs, stabilised energy prices, and gained a competitive advantage in a swiftly evolving market.”
Jackson added, “We take immense pride in partnering with Flow Power to promote enduring, sustainable business practices. This initiative aligns with our broader commitment to sustainable business practices, encompassing collaborations with our growers and clients on sustainable supply chain solutions.”
Exploring Bioenergy Solutions
Given the Riverina’s pivotal role in the New South Wales agricultural landscape, substantial quantities of biomass waste like nut shells, cotton trash, and grape marc are generated in the region.
Riverina Oils is actively investigating the potential of developing bioenergy solutions to reinforce its dedication to a circular and sustainable production model.
By repurposing agricultural waste as biomass, the company not only promotes sustainability but also opens up an additional revenue stream for local farmers.
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