In the bustling cleantech ecosystem of India, Inficold, a Delhi NCR-based startup, has carved a niche with its innovative approach to cold storage and cooling technology. Founded in 2015 by Himanshu Pokharna and Nitin Goel, the company is addressing the critical need for energy-efficient and sustainable cooling systems in diverse sectors. With a focus on modular cold storage, instant and bulk milk coolers, and vaccine refrigeration, Inficold is leveraging cutting-edge technology to deliver round-the-clock cooling with minimal energy input.
A Unique Proposition
Inficold has introduced a retrofit thermal energy storage technology that uses water to ice conversion as a low-cost medium for storing cooling energy. This groundbreaking solution employs solar electric energy to produce ice during peak power availability, which is then utilized for cooling purposes during off-peak hours. The flexibility of this technology allows it to be integrated with existing cooling hardware, eliminating the need for significant modifications.
This adaptability extends its applications across various industries, including dairy, cold storage, horticulture, poultry, and even vaccine refrigeration. By ensuring uninterrupted cooling with just seven hours of grid or solar power, Inficold’s products are designed to cater to regions where reliable electricity access is a challenge.
Funding and Growth
Since its inception, Inficold has garnered significant interest from investors. The startup has raised $9 million in funding to date, with notable backers such as Rajasthan Venture Capital Fund (RVCF) and the Shell Foundation. In 2021, Inficold secured INR 6.5 crore in a pre-Series A funding round, marking a milestone in its growth journey.
With installations in more than 17 states across India, including Assam, Meghalaya, and Tripura, the company has established a strong foothold, particularly in the northeastern region. This geographical reach underscores Inficold’s commitment to addressing the cooling needs of underserved areas.
Scaling Up Production
Inficold has announced ambitious plans to ramp up its production capacity by over tenfold. This expansion is aimed at reducing lead times for customers and meeting the rising demand for its innovative products. By scaling its manufacturing capabilities, the startup is positioning itself to cater to a broader audience across India.
The company’s enhanced production infrastructure will also support its foray into new market segments such as cold logistics and air conditioning. By expanding its presence in these industries, Inficold is aiming to bridge the gap between sustainable technology and practical, cost-effective solutions.
Addressing Critical Challenges
The significance of Inficold’s technology lies in its ability to address multiple challenges simultaneously. In rural and semi-urban areas, the lack of reliable cold storage often leads to high post-harvest losses in agriculture and dairy. Inficold’s modular cold storage solutions provide farmers and small businesses with a dependable option to preserve perishable goods, reducing waste and improving livelihoods.
Moreover, the startup’s focus on vaccine refrigeration has critical implications for healthcare in India, especially in remote areas. Ensuring the proper storage of vaccines is vital for immunization programs, and Inficold’s solar-powered solutions offer a reliable and energy-efficient alternative.
Environmental Impact
Inficold’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of solar energy and thermal storage technology. By reducing dependence on conventional grid power, the company is contributing to a significant reduction in carbon emissions. This aligns with India’s broader goals of promoting renewable energy and reducing the environmental footprint of its industries.
The use of ice as a cooling medium not only minimizes costs but also provides a scalable solution for regions with limited infrastructure. This eco-friendly approach ensures that Inficold’s products are both practical and aligned with global efforts to combat climate change.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, Inficold has outlined a strategic roadmap to expand its manufacturing, sales, and servicing capabilities. The company aims to deepen its penetration into sectors such as dairy, horticulture, poultry, meat processing, and cold logistics. By diversifying its portfolio and extending its market reach, Inficold is well-positioned to become a leader in India’s cleantech sector.
The startup is also exploring collaborations with government initiatives and private enterprises to further its impact. By aligning its objectives with national priorities, Inficold is not just driving business growth but also contributing to the socioeconomic development of the regions it serves.
A Vision for the Future
Inficold’s journey from a fledgling startup to a recognized name in the cleantech industry is a testament to the power of innovation and persistence. By addressing critical gaps in cooling infrastructure with sustainable solutions, the company is setting a benchmark for others in the sector.
As India continues to grapple with the dual challenges of energy scarcity and environmental sustainability, startups like Inficold offer a beacon of hope. Their emphasis on leveraging technology for practical solutions serves as an inspiration for the broader startup ecosystem.
Inficold’s story is not just about business success; it is a narrative of ingenuity, impact, and the potential of Indian startups to drive meaningful change. By staying true to its mission of providing efficient and affordable cooling solutions, the company is poised to leave a lasting mark on India’s cleantech landscape.
Conclusion
Inficold’s innovative approach to cooling solutions is a reminder of the transformative potential of startups in addressing real-world challenges. With its focus on sustainability, adaptability, and customer-centric solutions, the company is not just growing its business but also contributing to a better future. As it expands its reach and enhances its capabilities, Inficold is setting the stage for a new era of cleantech innovation in India.
