Approximately 40% potential energy savings were discovered from on-site generation using a combination of solar and wind. But how will the business case stack up? Monitoring and understanding energy usage provides the key.

Bulls Run Manager Scott Hughes is investigating the potential for swapping out diesel pumps for electric to irrigate selected paddocks on his 7,497-hectare lamb and cropping operation to save energy costs and water use.

Because there is no local source of water on or adjacent to the property, Garah owner and manager Bill Yates became a member of a community trust that owns and operates a large bore pump in the local area. The trust consists of 43 members, all of whom draw water from the bore. Bill is now a director of the trust. The NSW Farmers Energy Innovation program has triggered a discussion among Bill and his neighbours about what they should do after the solar feed-in tariff ends in December 2016.

Poultry farmers run sophisticated sheds that automatically regulate temperature, air quality and light conditions. This can require a lot of power, especially during heat spells. Solar PV systems provide great value for chicken growers, as they maximise energy savings during hot and sunny days.

Working with the NSW Farmers’ Energy Team, the Kensal Green farm in Gunnedah identified significant energy savings opportunities over the short, medium and longer term. Heading the list of opportunities was the use of variable speed drives (VSDs) on pumps, as well as proper ballasting of the farm’s new tractor.