Southern Distilling Company Increases Cooling Efficiency and Reduces Environmental Footprint with Third PROChiller System Purchase
Natural Refrigeration Takes Priority as Southern Distilling Company Expands
Southern Distilling Company, based in Statesville, NC, has recently invested in a cutting-edge PROChiller System that harnesses the power of the natural refrigerant R744 (CO2) in place of traditional chemical refrigerants. This latest acquisition marks the distillery’s third purchase of a PROChiller System, affirming their trust in PRO Refrigeration’s cooling solutions since their inception.
For their latest expansion, the distillery opted for the state-of-the-art PROGreen Solutions series of chiller systems. The PROGreen 100 HP Chiller System is the first model to utilize the environmentally friendly refrigerant R744 (CO2). With a Global Warming Potential (GWP) rating of 1, R744 sets the benchmark for sustainability. In stark contrast, PRO’s leading chemical option has a GWP rating over 1,000 times higher, measuring at 1273.
The advantages of the new system extend beyond environmental benefits; the PROGreen System also ensures enhanced cooling efficiency by effectively transferring more BTU/HR with reduced kW consumption. Moreover, it offers valuable heat recovery capabilities, enabling the distillery to repurpose waste heat, typically discharged into the environment, as the primary heat source for fulfilling their hot water requirements. Southern Distilling Company is committed to reducing its environmental footprint, and this strategic purchase represents a significant step towards realizing that goal.
“I really appreciate that our new PROChiller uses a refrigerant that will never be phased out, unlike the refrigerant used in our current chiller systems and other options we’ve considered,” provided Peter Barger, CEO of Southern Distilling. “For the PROGreen system to also operate more efficiently and allow me to reduce my boiler load by almost 50%, this will change how distilleries are built in the future.”
Jim VanderGiessen, CEO of PRO Refrigeration, added, “As leaders in the distilling industry, Southern Distilling is an ideal customer. They have high expectations that have challenged us to provide the most efficient, next-level cooling solutions. We can’t wait to get this new system online and operating.”
With the CEO’s enthusiasm and PRO Refrigeration’s confidence, the distillery eagerly anticipates the implementation of this cutting-edge system, further solidifying their position as pioneers in innovative cooling solutions.
About Pro Refrigeration
Based in Auburn, Washington, with a production facility in Mocksville, North Carolina, PRO Refrigeration, Inc. stands at the forefront of cooling technology and equipment for the craft beverage and dairy industries in the United States. With a track record dating back to 1990, PRO has built a reputation for manufacturing top-quality equipment and innovative solutions, delivering chilled fluid within a temperature range of -45°F to +45°F. In 2020, PRO established the PROGreen Solutions Team, dedicated to the adoption of natural refrigerants, marking a pivotal shift away from chemical-based alternatives. Visit www.prochiller.com to explore Pro Refrigeration’s comprehensive offerings, and for more information on their transition to natural refrigerants, visit www.prochiller.com/progreen.
About Southern Distilling Company
Southern Distilling Company was built on the American dream and is proudly reigniting North Carolina’s whiskey tradition. As one of the largest state-of-the-art distilleries in the Southeast, you’ll find us in Statesville, NC at the crossroads of I-77 and I-40. Staying true to our roots, we designed our facilities on a 20-acre campus where we welcome guests for distillery tours, bourbon tastings, crafted cocktails, and private events. Our business is perfected through partnerships, so we offer custom product development, co-packaging, and contract production. We live to create products that raise a glass to the simple joys of life together. To learn more about our story and craft, visit www.southerndistillingcompany.com.