Mullica Hill Cold Storage, a proud member of AGRO Merchants Group, is the largest third-party logistics provider specializing in import services for chilled and frozen meats in the United States. Their New Jersey compound includes six warehouses totaling more than 12 million cubic square feet. Primus Builders recently completed architecture, engineering and construction management services on its latest addition, a 130,000 SF cold storage space that adds 14,000 additional pallet positions.
The State of New Jersey provides incentives to firms that incorporate renewable energy components into their businesses. Because Primus is a member of the U.S. Green Building Council, it embraces sustainable design and construction practices and was determined to earn these incentives for Mullica Hill. Primus Vice President Erik Gunderson served as Project Executive, and after studying the project and meeting with Mullica Hill stakeholders, concluded the component that allowed the most energy savings was refrigeration. He began researching options.
The solution came from long-time Primus refrigeration partner ALTA Refrigeration. ALTA is the creator of the Expert System, a refrigeration system that does not require an engine room. Instead, stand alone roof top units and evaporators inside the refrigerated space provide cool temperatures while taking up less space, using less piping and using less energy.
Once this state-of-the-art refrigeration system was installed, Cascade Energy was commissioned to provide an energy analysis. This information was submitted to New Jersey Clean Energy Program officials who were satisfied that the project achieved sufficient energy savings. The program awarded Mullica Hill approximately $281,000 in incentives. The Expert System was so successful, Primus is incorporating it on its next project for PFG in Little Rock, Arkansas.
For more information on the Mullica Hill project, see our case study here.