Dual fuel strategy accelerates Open Country’s decarbonisation

INDUSTRY
Dairy

SOLUTION
Simply Flex

Challenge

While New Zealand’s electricity grid is highly renewable, carbon emissions can spike during peak demand when fossil fuel plants are needed. Open Country, having installed an electric boiler alongside existing coal boilers at its Awarua plant, sought to optimise its boiler usage for maximum carbon efficiency during its transition to cleaner energy.

Solution

We implemented our Simply Flex platform to intelligently switch between Open Country’s coal and electric boilers. The system monitors forecasted electricity prices and automatically activates the electric boiler when prices are low, typically indicating lower carbon emissions. This half-hourly operation aligns with wholesale market fluctuations, reducing carbon emissions and supporting grid sustainability.

Impact

By integrating Simply Flex, Open Country has leveraged low wholesale prices, increased electricity use, and achieved significant carbon savings. In the first 10 months, they displaced 5,900 tonnes of coal and reduced emissions by 10,600 tCO₂e. As coal prices rise, we continue to optimise the fuel mix, increasing electric boiler usage for greater environmental and economic benefits.

With some innovative thinking from Simply Energy, smart technology and an energy supply tariff that supports flexibility, we know we are optimising the use of our electric boiler cost-effectively and making decisions that are good for business and the planet.

Steve Koekemoer
Open Country’s former CEO

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Simply Energy

Energy

Advisory

Solutions

Dual fuel strategy accelerates Open Country’s decarbonisation

Challenge

Solution

Impact

With some innovative thinking from Simply Energy, smart technology and an energy supply tariff that supports flexibility, we know we are optimising the use of our electric boiler cost-effectively and making decisions that are good for business and the planet.

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