by Sarah Brennan, Sustainability Coordinator

As we move into the coming year, you may notice some behind-the-scenes work happening at the Co-op. We’re beginning a major update to our refrigeration systems — an essential improvement that will help us increase energy efficiency, lower our greenhouse gas emissions, and reduce maintenance costs and food waste. Throughout the project, the store will remain open: we’re committed to keeping your shopping experience smooth and well-supported, with minimal disruption.

Work will begin this winter behind the scenes: new condensing units will be positioned on the roof over the Bulk department, and new piping installed in the receiving area at the back of the store. Cases and coolers on the retail floor will be switched out in a phased approach beginning in February. We expect the project to be wrapped up by summer.

This project has been in the works since the fall of 2024, when we were awarded a $500,000 grant from the USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program. We will receive those funds when the project is complete.

Why are we doing this?

Our current refrigeration system is already older than its projected lifespan, and it is failing. It experiences frequent leaks and is beyond repair. It uses the refrigerant R404A, common in grocery stores, which has a global warming potential (GWP) of 3,922. This means that its impact – its total contribution to trapping heat in the atmosphere – is 3,922 times stronger than carbon dioxide (CO2), which has a GWP of 1. 

The new system will use CO2, a natural and non-toxic refrigerant that is already common in Europe and increasingly common in the U.S. Some stand-alone components, such as the prep tables in the Cheese and Deli departments, will use R290, a propane-based refrigerant with a GWP of just 3.

How will the Co-op benefit?

Expanded and improved offerings: We are adding at least 45 linear feet of refrigerated cases, expanding our offerings in Produce, Frozen, Perishables (Dairy) and Grab and Go.

Reduced Electricity Consumption: We should see a 28% reduction.

Reduced Service Calls and Maintenance Costs

Reduced Water Use: Our water use spikes each summer because we need to keep the roof top condensing units cool — that won’t be necessary with the new system.

Final thoughts

Again, we want to reassure you that you’ll still be able to shop comfortably throughout this project, and any disruptions will be kept as minimal as possible.

During the installation period, the store will remain open. Some departments may be briefly reorganized or partially closed so crews can access equipment, but we’ll provide clear signs and staff support to help you find what you need. You may also notice a few layout changes or a fresh coat of paint as we take the opportunity to update certain areas.

We’ll keep you informed as we go, and we appreciate your patience as these improvements take shape. Your shopping experience will remain our top priority from start to finish.

For reference: 

Previous communications: https://brattleborofoodcoop.coop/news/sustainability-at-the-co-op-big-news/