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Electric Truck Refrigeration Units

Plug in instead of running on diesel by switching to electric-standby truck refrigeration units (eTRUs) to cool perishables. They are a cleaner, more sustainable and lower-cost solution for standby refrigeration.

Step Up to Cleaner, Quieter Cooling

A Cleaner, Healthier Work Environment

eTRUs produce zero site emissions, improving air quality and cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

Reduce Maintenance Costs by 15%

Fewer mechanical parts mean less to go wrong, saving labor and parts costs.

Quiet Operation

eTRUs are much quieter than diesel engines, reducing distraction for personnel.

Cost of eTRUs

eTRUs and related installation costs usually pay for themselves in less than two years. They cost less to fuel and maintain because electricity is cheaper and more efficient than diesel, and fuel costs while idling can be reduced by up to 80%. The incremental cost for an eTRU is typically between $350 and $1,000. Outlet installation costs can vary from about $500 to $7,000, depending on the existing electrical infrastructure.

Fuel Cost Comparison

480V eTRU 100% Diesel TRU

Cost per Kilowatt-Hour (kWh)

$0.085

Fuel Cost per Gallon

$3.14

Unit Demand (in kilowatts)

11.14

Average Gallons Displaced/Hour

1.16

Hours Plugged in per Week

30

Hours Idling per Week

30

Annual Hours of Usage

2080

Annual Hours of Usage

2080

Annual kWh

16,710

Annual Gallons Used

1,740

Total Annual Fuel Cost

(by converting to electric)

$1,420

Total Annual Fuel Cost

$5,464
Estimated Annual Fuel Savings
(by converting to electric)		 $4,044

Infrastructure for eTRUs

Warehouses and other large facilities typically have enough power to fuel an eTRU. A short extension or transformer upgrade may be required, depending on the age of the facility, physical location of dock and yard areas in relation to electrical service, mix of dock versus yard spaces, number of outlets, and operational features. Investing in upgrades for eTRUs may expand electric plug-in capacity for other needs at the facility.

Safety Measures

Installing breakaway plugs and other safety measures can help prevent damage to the electric infrastructure when unplugged incorrectly.

Environmental Benefits

Electrification of refrigeration units when parked reduces toxic air pollution. A typical eTRU can reduce greenhouse gas emissions from idling by 14 tons each year.* eTRUs reduce noise, which means greater operator awareness, fewer accidents, and improved ambiance for the surrounding community.*

 

FAQs

Warehouses and other large facilities typically have enough power to fuel an eTRU. Sometimes, a short extension or transformer upgrade is required.
Installing breakaway plugs and other safety measures can help prevent damage to the electric infrastructure when unplugged incorrectly.
eTrus cost more than diesel-powered refrigeration units. However, the monthly payment to finance an eTRU is often less than the avoided diesel cost.

Start the conversation about transitioning to electric

Fill out the form to sign up for updates and connect with our electrification experts. We look forward to helping you cut your operating and maintenance costs and make your enterprise a showcase for sustainability in action. We'll make sure you get the information and resources you need to move forward.

As an Ameren Missouri customer, you can get a free consultation to help you discover how making the switch to electric can enhance your business. When you schedule a consultation, you will meet with an Energy Solutions account member to:

  • Review existing diesel truck refrigeration units and operating costs
  • Discuss the benefits and advantages of electric truck refrigeration units
  • Receive full cost-benefit and emission-reduction analysis
  • Develop a customized recommendation report

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* EPRI. Market and Technology Assessment of Electric Transport Refrigeration Units. Palo Alto, CA: 2015. Product ID: 3002006036.

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