Arla

What did the client need?

Arla needed an Energy Monitoring & Targeting (M&T) platform to enable their zero-carbon dairy strategy. They sought a partner who could not only provide the platform but also support them as their trusted advisor with comprehensive energy and metering knowledge.

How did Verco support the client?

Verco and Arla have worked together for over 15 years. Initially, Verco developed an M&T platform for Arla’s UK sites at a main incomer level. This then progressed to sub-metering. When the platform proved to be a success, Verco was appointed to roll it out globally. We worked with the Arla team, utilities suppliers and Arla site personnel to manage internal stakeholders and find the best way to automatically capture and link data in Carbon Desktop. We made sure to capture the data using the most robust means available in order to ensure continued data quality. Throughout this process, we used our technological expertise to make sure Carbon Desktop could provide real-time alerting and corporate reporting features.

Once the platform was embedded across all the Arla sites and their main incomers, we achieved a further roll-out of sub-metered data via our Stage 2 process. Here we conducted offsite utility distribution mapping, creating draft maps based on initial available documentation and information. We then visited the sites to verify the offsite information and add missing significant end users. While we were onsite we also assessed the data health of existing metering systems and suggested new meters to install based on a phased, prioritised programme. Alongside this, we implemented data capture systems for the existing metering, such as connecting the Building Management System (BMS) and installing LoRaWAN pulse capture collection systems.

The data within Carbon Desktop has been used to enable numerous Net Zero achievements across Arla’s operations. Verco has been commissioned by Arla to complete several Net Zero roadmap audits where we have identified and quantified demand reduction and supply-side opportunities. These opportunities then feed into a scenario analysis and recommendations on the preferred routes to Net Zero.

The platform has also been used to monitor improvements and maintain operational best practice. Across a range of compliance activities, the platform has been the linchpin for data capture and review for the CHPQA scheme (a DESNZ programme to ensure the efficient operation of CHP engines to secure tax breaks).

What was the result?

A global M&T platform was implemented across all Arla sites, from main incomers down to sub-metering. This platform was able to provide both high-level reporting figures and trend identification and resolution at the end-user level.