Waitrose has announced a “breakthrough” in supermarket technology after developing new, propane-based refrigeration technology, which will dramatically reduce its carbon footprint by 20 per cent.

According to the Environmental Investigation Agency, about one quarter of the carbon footprint of supermarkets comes from the cooling gases used in their refrigeration systems.

The supermarket industry has struggled to find a solution to this to date. Hydro fluorocarbon (HFC)-free refrigeration installation technology trialled to date has been complex, and lack of technical know-how has been a major barrier to adoption.

Waitrose has provided a solution to this problem by developing an HFC-free refrigeration installation that can be easily serviced by retrained engineers.

The retailer will invest in additional training to ensure that the system is rolled out quickly and efficiently.

The technology will be introduced in the new Waitrose Altrincham branch in 2010 and in every new and major refitted branch following that.

Nigel Keen, director of building, services and development, said: “This is a very exciting new development for Waitrose and for all retailers. Reduction of HFCs is a major concern for supermarkets, and the beauty of this system is its simplicity. There are no barriers to its being rolled out, and we will install it in every new store from now on.”

Waitrose is also working with the independent buildings environmental assessor BREEAM (BRE Environmental Assessment Method) and has committed to achieving a “very good” BREEAM rating from 2010 on all newly built stores.

As part of its continuing commitment to sustainability, Waitrose has also announced its commitment to reducing leaks from refrigerants by 50 per cent over the coming three years and to report publicly on progress.

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