GridBeyond now has the largest portfolio of 1s (very fast) raise Contingency FCAS
Sydney, 21 January 2025. GridBeyond has consolidated its position as the largest very fast FCAS aggregator in the NEM (National Electricity Market), managing a 145MW portfolio of Very Fast frequency control ancillary services in Australia.
Sydney, 21 January 2025. GridBeyond has consolidated its position as the largest very fast FCAS aggregator in the NEM (National Electricity Market), managing a 145MW portfolio of Very Fast frequency control ancillary services in Australia.
FCAS refers to a set of mechanisms and services implemented within power systems to regulate and stabilise grid frequency by providing a fast injection or fast reduction of energy, to manage supply and demand.
FCAS operates through a combination of market-based mechanisms and technical solutions. It involves a range of services aimed at both managing sudden imbalances in supply and demand (known as contingency events) and providing continuous adjustments to maintain frequency stability.
The Very Fast Contingency Frequency Control Ancillary Services launched in 2023 are designed to ensure there is enough frequency response in the system to deal with a single credible contingency – typically the loss of a large generating unit or major industrial load.
FCAS finds application in various sectors. To participate assets are required to respond to a fall or rise in frequency within about a second or less by changing the output of their generator or load to attempt to arrest that fall or rise in frequency. Batteries, for example, can dispatch their stored energy to support the grid during times of high demand or unexpected fluctuations.
Participants can deliver very fast FCAS while also delivering fast, slow and delayed FCAS. This means if a participant is already providing contingency FCAS, and has fast enough meters and operational response times, then they’d likely want to participate in the very fast markets. When participating in the FCAS market, participants typically work through aggregators, such as GridBeyond, that coordinate multiple sites.
1s (very fast) raise Contingency FCAS
GridBeyond’s FCAS Auto-rebidder combines sophisticated hardware control with backend software algorithms, this enhanced capability allows GridBeyond to optimise the bidding strategy for customers with large and dynamic loads leading to a significant increase in their revenue. Its success so far has meant that, with 145MW, GridBeyond is now the largest provider of 1s (very fast) raise Contingency FCAS.
Gabriella Di Salvo
Global Head of Communications | GridBeyond
Three Degrees Of Difference - Progress in 2025
Dr Ian Jenson of First Management Pty Ltd has published the a paper documenting the shelf life of beef and lamb at -12°C as well as at -18°C. Read more to find out what the upshot is….
Dr Ian Jenson of First Management Pty Ltd has published the attached paper documenting the shelf life of beef and lamb at -12°C as well as at -18°C. The upshot is that the result is (drumroll) there is a long shelf life at both temperatures, a small step in justifying a change in storage and transport temperatures.
Dr Jenson has been working with the American Frozen Food Institute on a protocol for measuring food temperatures in supply chains, and will be implementing it through a contract with the Australian Meat Processor Association.
A brief overview of the document:
The recent study explores the practical frozen shelf life of Australian boxed beef and lamb stored beyond 12 months. Researchers examined meat quality after storage at -12°C, -18°C, and -24°C for up to 38 months. This study involved commercial conditions, using vacuum-packed beef and lamb loins, alongside overwrapped lamb trim. Analysis included sensory evaluation, lipid oxidation, microbial safety, and texture.
Findings revealed that meat stored at all tested temperatures showed no significant sensory degradation for up to 36 months. Lipid oxidation increased with storage time and warmer temperatures but remained below levels detectable by sensory panels. Vacuum-packed products retained quality better than overwrapped samples, particularly lamb trim, which exhibited earlier signs of oxidation. Importantly, microbial quality was maintained across all storage temperatures, affirming the safety of frozen storage.
This research challenges existing perceptions of frozen meat's shelf life, suggesting that under proper storage conditions, Australian boxed beef and lamb can retain quality well beyond the traditional 12-month benchmark. It highlights the importance of vacuum packaging for extended storage and provides valuable insights for global cold chain logistics and export markets.
New RWTA Member in WA, TRACS!
Welcoming our new Member from WA, Brett Claus from TRACS! After meeting last year at the RWTA Function in Perth, TRACS has joined the RWTA as a Member.
Welcoming our new Member from WA, Brett Claus from TRACS! After meeting last year at the RWTA Function in Perth, TRACS has joined the RWTA as a Member.
TRACS are transport refrigeration experts and are an Australian owned and operated company, based in Perth. They are an authorised WA dealer of Carrier Transicold and have the added benefit of doing repais for cutomers as well! Familiar with the Cold Chain, take a few minutes to meet Brett and contact him with your requirements:
Brett Claus
Director
Mob: +61 413 884 320
Tel: +61 8 9353 4544
Email: brett@tracs.com.au
Website: tracs.com.au
Transport Refrigeration Specialists
Carrier Transicold Parts Australia | Tracs WA
3 Tipping Road, Kewdale, Western Australia 6105
A Warm Welcome to GoodWe, New Member of the RWTA!
GoodWe BIPV (Building-Integrated Photovoltaic Solutions) is the PV Building Materials Business Unit of GoodWe, dedicated to advancing PV building materials to the cold chain.
GoodWe BIPV (Building-Integrated Photovoltaic Solutions) is the PV Building Materials Business Unit of GoodWe, dedicated to advancing PV building materials to the cold chain.
GoodWe BIPV provide swift and hassle-free installation, unhindered architectural styles, active electrical safety protection in all scenarios and have a comparable building lifetime, better than traditional PV materials.
GoodWe's Galaxy light-weight solar panel install on the refrigerated trucks without penetration can save diesel cost up to 40%, with payback less than 2 years.
The panels are designed to be glued directly onto the roof surface and so are particularly beneficial for preserving the integrity of the roof, reducing the risk of leaks, and simplifying the installation process.
These panels are typically made from lightweight composite materials, which contribute to ease of handling and reduced stress on the building structure. Their design might incorporate features for enhancing durability, UV resistance, and thermal insulation.
This type of system is ideal for buildings that require a lightweight roof with minimal structural impact, ideal for cold chain warehouses and older buildings where the roof might not support heavier loads. It’s also a preferred choice for environmentally sensitive installations where penetration might affect thermal barriers or moisture seals. Besides being leak-resistant due to the lack of penetrations, these panels are often designed for quick and easy installation, which can significantly reduce labour costs and time. Additionally, the glue-on approach minimizes disruptions at the installation site.
Key Contact:
Apollo Chai
E: apollo@goodwe.com
M: 0423 313 288
W: www.en.pvbm.com
Meet Don Cottle of UltiGroup
Join us in the RWTA ‘Chilled Out’ series as Marianne speaks with new member Don Cottle of UltiGroup.
Join us in the RWTA ‘Chilled Out’ series as Marianne speaks with new member Don Cottle of UltiGroup.
Based in NZ and with deliverables in Australia, Ultigroup specialise in energy conservation and food safety compliance.
They are experts in delivering to cold storage, dairy and food processing, logistics and warehousing, retail and supermarkets.
Their industrial doors and loading systems will add to the problem solving of many cold storage facilities by, quite simply, keeping the cold air in and the warm air out using up to the minute technology and many years of onsite experience.
Set aside five minutes to watch this insightful interview and learn how UltiGroup is pushing the boundaries of facility management with their smart solutions. Watch the video now!
Frank Vale Award Alert!
It’s that time of year for Managers to nominate their best and most promising Leadership talent to be part of the Frank Vale Award 2025! Managers to send application forms before 14th of March.
It’s that time of year for Managers to nominate their best and most promising Leadership talent to be part of the Frank Vale Award 2025!
Take a few moments to see what the former winners have said about this life changing competition in the Cold Chain.
Don’t let your emerging leaders miss out on this incredible opportunity.
Managers to send application forms before 14th of March.
Tasman Cold Logistics, RWTA’s Newest Warehouse Member
Its our pleasure to introduce to you to the Head of Cold Chain Solutions, Stan Bearder from Tasman Cold Logistics.
Its our pleasure to introduce to you to the Head of Cold Chain Solutions, Stan Bearder from Tasman Cold Logistics. New Member in 2025, Tasman have recently opened at Lytton Rd in Brisbane and are settling in and already doing great business with Brisbane, Toowoomba and surrounds.
Listen now to hear more from Stan about their plans for the year ahead.
SA Golf Day 17th March: Registration and Sponsorship Open
The Adelaide Golf Day is being held on the Monday 17th March at Kooyonga Golf Club. This is a great opportunity to network with other Cold Chain professionals. Register here!
The Adelaide Golf Day is being held on the Monday 17th March at Kooyonga Golf Club.
This is a great opportunity to network with other Cold Chain professionals, enjoy a friendly competition and have some fun on the green. More information below.
Join us for a memorable day of golf - all levels welcome!
Click on the flyer for Sponsorship / Registration.
Thank you to our Sponsors:
Perth Networking Event 18th February, Afternoon Drinks and Canapes!
Join us for an exclusive after-work get together at Cost Port Beach in Perth (Fremantle), eat, drink and relax with us! Register here!
RWTA hosting an opportunity to Network and Unwind.
Join us for an exclusive after-work get together at Cost Port Beach in Perth (Fremantle), eat, drink and relax with us!
Click on the flyer and book now!
Begin 2025 with Confidence: Your Mental Health First Aid Session Awaits
Do people come to you with their problems? Have you been in a situation where someone is in trouble, and you hoped that whatever you said helped them and not made it worse? In that case, we have a Mental Health First Aid Course available online just for you! Coming up on Tuesday 11 & 18th February 2025. Register here!
Mental Health First Aid Course Tuesday 11 & 18th February 2025
The Facts:
1 in 5 Australians are presently experiencing a mental health condition, so workplaces can expect around 20% of their workforce to be living with a mental health condition.
Financially and ethically, it’s in every company’s best interest to support their workers. Research confirms that every dollar spent on effective workplace mental health actions may generate $2.30 in benefits to an organisation.
This course has been designed for staff to be equipped with tools to assist their teammates.
By building knowledge, skills and awareness, we can better support our teammates and the community.
Click on the flyer to register!
NSW Golf Day 3rd March: Registration and Sponsorship Open
The NSW Golf Day is being held on the Monday 3rd March at Strathfield Golf Club. This is a great opportunity to network with other Cold Chain professionals, enjoy a friendly competition and have some fun on the green. Register here!
The NSW Golf Day is being held on the Monday 3rd March at Strathfield Golf Club.
This is a great opportunity to network with other Cold Chain professionals, enjoy a friendly competition and have some fun on the green.
Join us for a memorable day of golf — all levels welcome!
Click on the flyer for Sponsorship / Registration.
QLD Networking Breakfast 5th February Chain of Responsibility: Simplifying Law, Compliance, and Risk
Join us for breakfast on 5th February. Chain of Responsibility (CoR) and overall safety in the cold chain industry is of paramount concern. Register here!
Join us for breakfast on 5th February
Chain of Responsibility (CoR) and overall safety in the cold chain industry is of paramount concern. CJC Logistics Compliance specialise in Heavy Vehicle National Law and Chain of Responsibility compliance and assurance and provide risk mitigation strategies to ensure your business is doing all that is considered “Reasonably Practicable”. Join us to learn more about CoR requirements in 2025.
Click on the flyer to register!
RWTA News: Energy flexibility critical to meet challenges of rising demand and climate change
Energy flexibility critical to meet challenges of rising demand and climate change, says energy trends 2025 white paper. Resilience and a sustainable energy system are crucial responses to increasing energy demands and climate change, says GridBeyond’s latest report.
Energy flexibility critical to meet challenges of rising demand and climate change, says energy trends 2025 white paper
Resilience and a sustainable energy system are crucial responses to increasing energy demands and climate change, says GridBeyond’s latest report
As global energy demands rises alongside the challenges of climate change, the need for a resilient and sustainable energy system has never been more urgent, according to GridBeyond’s latest white paper Energy trends 2025 – The rise of the demand side.
Now in its sixth edition, the report offers an in depth analysis of the energy systems in the UK, Ireland, USA, Australia and Japan highlighting their shared challenges like aging infrastructure, rising energy demand, and the need for innovation. It concludes that achieving net zero targets – particularly the near-term goal of a 2030 net-zero electricity sector – will require a smarter and more flexible energy system.
Noting that the distributed energy resources market is expected to more than double by 2027, the report emphasises the critical role of energy flexibility in building resilient and adaptive energy systems, such as the role of virtual power plants (VPPs), electric vehicles, corporate power purchase agreements (CPPA), energy procurement and energy storage.
In the road to decarbonisation assets are also moving closer to the grid edge, with EVs, small- and large-scale renewables generation and heat pumps poised to connect into a vast, decentralised network – offering capacity akin to several nuclear power plants. Given significant declines in costs (more than 90% in the last 15 years) battery energy storage systems (BESS) will also play a crucial role in providing flexibility and supporting inflexible technologies (such as solar PV).
While reducing energy consumption or utilising flexibility is often the most obvious way for businesses to reduce impact where it’s crucial for assets or processes to maintain continuous operation (inflexible assets and operations) this may not be possible. As a result, many companies are procuring energy from renewable generation sources as part of their net zero plans, meaning CPPAs, certificate trading and more sophisticated procurement strategies will also play a big role in 2025 and beyond.
Building on the success of its predecessors, Energy trends 2025 – The rise of the demand side offers a comprehensive study of how businesses and grid operators can meet the challenges of an ever evolving, global energy landscape.
Frostbite- A Tale of the Cold Chain!
In this video, we discuss that Ammonia is negligible global warming impact on the environment, and on that, global warming in the cold chain- why are we not reading about this?
Nicola Twilley is the author of Frostbite, a book about...the Cold Chain! Nicky and I discuss in a series of videos her book, the cold chain and its future. We touch on the ‘permanent global summertime’, seamless processes and a seeming abundance of food - there’s always more where that came from..or is there? Labour shortages, energy and Insurance costs; the cold chain is the 3rd highest industrial consumer of energy.
About the book: Frostbite, New Yorker contributor and cohost of the award-winning podcast Gastropod Nicola Twilley takes readers on a tour of the cold chain from farm to fridge. Nearly three-quarters of everything on the average American plate is processed, shipped, stored, and sold under refrigeration. It’s impossible to make sense of our food system without understanding the all-but-invisible network of thermal control that underpins it. Twilley’s eye-opening book is the first to reveal the transformative impact refrigeration has had on our health and our guts; our farms, tables, kitchens, and cities; global economics and politics; and even our environment.
Welcome aboard Transport Refrigeration Service(TRS), Newest member of the RWTA!
For over 40 years, TRS is recognised as a leader in refrigeration services and support for the Australian refrigerated transport business.
For over 40 years, TRS is recognised as a leader in refrigeration services and support for the Australian refrigerated transport business.
Their growth has come from providing refrigerated road transport clients with the products and services they need to run their businesses efficiently and profitably.
TRS is the exclusive NSW and SA distributor of ThermoKing and Anteo Tail-Lifts.
To learn more, take a few moments to listen to the interview with Luke Gordon now!
Transforming Cold Chain Operations: Americold Positions Itself for Future Growth with Dematic
To maintain its position as a leader in temperature-controlled logistics and meet increasing operational demands, Americold partnered with Dematic to optimise its cold chain operations technology in Australia
To maintain its position as a leader in temperature-controlled logistics and meet increasing operational demands, Americold partnered with Dematic to optimise its cold chain operations technology in Australia. This collaboration has upgraded Americold’s existing Dematic wireless connectivity, Voice-Picking systems, and Radio Frequency (RF) devices with the latest technologies, further boosting efficiencies and productivity while preparing for future growth.
The partnership between Americold and Dematic has been crucial to the success of the upgrade project. Dematic provided on-site support from the initial planning stages through to the final deployment of new technology, and its ongoing involvement has ensured that Americold’s systems continue to operate smoothly.
“Dematic understands our business and brings solutions that are relevant to our needs,” said Aishling O’Brien, Vice President, Information Technology, APAC, Americold Logistics. “They have a wide customer range themselves and are well positioned to tell us what’s happening in the market and where they can see further efficiencies for Americold.”
TAFE SA’s dual qualification in refrigeration and electrical
There have been three graduates from a dual qual refrigeration and electrical trade course that adds a Green Scheme Accreditation. This is the only national accreditation to demonstrate that technicians are qualified to work with low-GWP refrigerants. The combined apprenticeship runs for 5 years.
There have been three graduates from a dual qual refrigeration and electrical trade course that adds a Green Scheme Accreditation. This is the only national accreditation to demonstrate that technicians are qualified to work with low-GWP refrigerants. The combined apprenticeship runs for 5 years, read more below.
The Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) has rewarded the first graduates of South Australia’s new dual-qualification refrigeration and electrical course by providing them with Green Scheme Accreditation to add to their credentials.
The Dual Trade program was developed by TAFE SA, PEER and NECA SA and delivers refrigeration and air conditioning (RAC) and electrical training concurrently at TAFE SA Tonsley Campus.
Its first three graduates – Klaus Duthler, Bradley Thompson and Daniel Chellew – were all doing their RAC training when the dual qualification became available. The combined apprenticeship runs for 5 years and require 1,540 hours total study compared to 1,060 for a single trade.
ARC chief executive officer Glenn Evans said TAFE SA’s dual qualification was a great example of training providers changing to suit the needs of industry.
‘This innovative program results in a multi-skilled technician able to perform the full scope of work of both the RAC and electrical disciplines,’ he said.
‘Importantly, it will give RAC technicians the formal qualification to undertake the electrical aspects of their work, confirming the full range of skills they have.
‘Also in step with our changing industry, it includes handling flammable refrigerants, which are becoming ever more prevalent in our industry.
‘This entitles graduates to ARC’s Green Scheme Accreditation, the only national accreditation to demonstrate that technicians are qualified to work with low-GWP refrigerants.
‘ARC congratulates the graduates of this pioneering new course, and is pleased to provide two years of free Green Scheme Accreditation to them.’
… ends …
Media Contact: Greg Shoemark — 0412 577 526
RWTA would like to thank the Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) for news release.
New Member Alert: Welcome Tasman Cold Chain Solutions!
A Warm Welcome to Tasman Cold Chain Solutions, New Member of the RWTA! As the latest addition to Tasman Logistics Services' portfolio, Cold Chain Solutions focuses on high-volume clients and non-standard handling requirements.
A Warm Welcome to Tasman Cold Chain Solutions, New Member of the RWTA!
As the latest addition to Tasman Logistics Services' portfolio, Cold Chain Solutions focuses on high-volume clients and non-standard handling requirements. This new division is dedicated to understanding specific cold chain needs and developing customised plans to ensure products remain perfectly chilled from warehouse to store shelf.
Their diverse customer portfolio includes brands requiring specialised handling services for meats, small goods, fresh produce, seafood, and pharmaceuticals.
We’re excited to have Tasman Cold Chain Solutions join the RWTA community and look forward to their contributions to our industry!
Key Contact:
Stan Bearder, Head of Cold Chain Solutions
E: stan.bearder@taslog.com.au
M: 0439 423 459
New Member Alert: Welcome to Ulti Group
We’re excited to welcome Ulti Group and their cutting-edge cold storage solutions to the Australian market!
We’re excited to welcome Ulti Group and their cutting-edge cold storage solutions to the Australian market!
With over 30 years of experience supporting major brands like Fonterra, Woolworths, Talleys, Lineage, Americold and many others, their NZ-made, high-performance doors and dock systems are designed to safeguard the temperature-sensitive assets that matter most to you, ensuring the highest standards of insulation and reliability.
Built for durability and energy efficiency, their tailored solutions boost operational resilience and streamline the cold chain, helping you maintain peak performance, protect your products, and drive profitability—all with the reliability you expect from the industry’s trusted name.
Ulti Group – Protect What Matters!
Contact:
Andrew Suckling
Business Development
andrew@ultigroup.co.nz
+64 21 228 3835
0800 807 753
Welcoming TRS to the RWTA in 2025!
Exciting Addition: TRS Becomes Part of RWTA in 2025! With over 40 years of expertise, TRS is Australia’s leader in refrigerated transport solutions.
Exciting Addition: TRS Becomes Part of RWTA in 2025!
With over 40 years of expertise, TRS is Australia’s leader in refrigerated transport solutions.
They are exclusive suppliers of Thermo King refrigeration units and Anteo Tail-Lifts in NSW and SA, and their revolutionary Thermaxx truck bodies deliver the lowest ‘K’ value in Australia for maximum thermal efficiency.
TRS’s Team consists only of factory-trained technicians, ensuring your equipment gets expert care, every time.
They offer comprehensive services including refrigeration unit and tail lift repairs, truck rentals, and 24/7 roadside assistance.
TRS are committed to keeping your operations moving with reliable, innovative solutions that maximise efficiency and support your success.
For more information, please contact:
Luke Gordon
National Sales Manager
E: luke@trsservice.com.au
M: 0488 050 580
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