At Arcus, we’re redefining refrigeration energy management with data-driven insights, using technology to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and minimise environmental impact.
Refrigeration is a major energy consumer in many commercial estates – particularly in food retail and hospitality – where inefficiencies can quickly drive up costs. That’s why our in-house Refrigeration Bureau and Energy Bureau work collaboratively to identify inefficiencies, optimise system performance, and implement solutions that enhance food safety, compliance, and operational reliability. This partnership ensures refrigeration estates operate efficiently while adapting to the evolving needs of the sector.
Energy efficiency isn’t just about cost savings – it’s also a key indicator of potential asset failure. By continuously analysing large volumes of operational data, the Energy Bureau identifies high-energy-consuming sites and emerging inefficiencies. The Refrigeration Bureau then applies targeted interventions to optimise performance, prevent breakdowns, and extend asset lifespans.
A key initiative driving these efficiencies is Global Command – executed through our proprietary IoT system, Helix. This intervention automates a twice-daily load-shedding process, reducing energy consumption during peak demand periods. By leveraging real-time energy pricing data, Helix predicts high-cost periods and proactively adjusts refrigeration loads, saving customers money while supporting grid stability.
To date, Global Command has delivered estimated savings of £2 million, demonstrating the power of data-driven energy management in reducing costs and improving sustainability.
FROM INNOVATION TO BUSINESS AS USUAL
What was once considered cutting-edge is now embedded in our standard operations. Load-shifting strategies, participation in Distribution Network Operator (DNO) market access events, and optimised energy pricing management are now a core part of its approach, tailored to each customer’s unique goals.
Currently, 30-minute load-shedding actions are achieving around 7.5MWh, demonstrating the significant potential to reduce peak energy demand and drive further efficiencies.
Beyond cost savings, Helix enables rapid action when the UK’s energy grid is under pressure, reducing customer energy loads at short notice. This not only helps prevent potential supply disruptions but also provides financial incentives for customers participating in demand reduction events.
By integrating advanced technology with intelligent energy management, we continue to drive efficiency, resilience, and sustainability for our customers.
REDUCING CARBON, INCREASING RELIABILITY
Optimising energy management doesn’t just save money – it directly reduces carbon emissions. Efficient refrigeration systems experience fewer mechanical failures, reducing the need for refrigerant gas replacements, which have a high global warming potential.
Our team of technology experts leverage Helix to collect, monitor, and analyse data from customers’ estates and assets, learning their behaviours and predicting potential inefficiencies before they occur. By integrating future prediction modelling, Helix provides early warnings when systems are likely to run inefficiently, allowing for proactive intervention.
Helix brings all data together in one place, enabling cross-referencing of impacts and consequences across multiple asset bases, including Refrigeration, BMS, HVAC, energy, and weather data, alongside work order information from any CAFM system.
By gathering data from both on-site equipment and external sources, such as weather patterns, Helix enhances our facilities management services with predictive insights. This allows Arcus to provide live data on all intelligent asset disciplines, linking to any asset database to track, monitor, and optimise asset performance and lifecycle management.
We deliver measurable value to customers through continuous innovation, collaboration, and a data-driven approach. Our solutions don’t just improve energy efficiency – they contribute to long-term sustainability goals, ensuring compliance with the highest industry standards while reducing costs and carbon footprints.
By harnessing the power of real-time data and advanced technology, we’re transforming refrigeration energy management – one smarter decision at a time.
At Arcus FM, we’re redefining refrigeration with expert training, cutting-edge technology, and a 24/7 support model that prioritises uptime and reliability.
Contact us to redefine your refrigeration