This page lists different resources that provide overviews of wind energy for farms and farmers.
Part 1 – Making the decision
Wind turbines are devices that transform the energy in wind into electricity. In some parts of Pennsylvania, very large wind turbines are visible on ridgetops and high elevations, generating power for use on utility distribution lines. However, it may also be possible for individual farmers, homeowners, or businesses to install a wind turbine to provide electricity for them to use on site. This approach is called “distributed wind”, and while it is not …
Research, Policy, Industry, and Innovation
9-11 June, 2026, State College, PA
The event was a great success – thank you to all who participated!
The conference page and program page will remain published to serve as a reference for those interested in obtaining information about the event. Presentation slides and posters have not been published – please contact individual presenters for information about their presentations.
To review full program, visit AD on the Farm Conference 2026 Program
Authors: Gary Musgrave, Bill Lazarus, Dan Ciolkosz, Penn State Extension
Overview:
This business opportunity plan (BOP) describes the steps involved for a hypothetical farm (called “Green Mallard Farm”) to contribute manure to a community anaerobic digester that is operated by a separate digester company. The community digester uses the manure from the farm (and other farms) to produce biogas from manure (and perhaps other feedstocks such as perennial grass and food waste). The biogas may be used to produce electricity …
Join us for monthly webinars on the emerging science that sits at the juncture of Renewable Natural Gas, Anaerobic Digestion, and Regenerative Agriculture.
Learn from thought leaders who are expanding what is known about transforming our agricultural sector in terms of its energy, economic, and ecological performance.
Engage in discussion about new discoveries about integrating biogas and regenerative agriculture together into the rural economy.
Who Should Attend?
All are welcome! These webinars will be presenting new and emerging research in …
Example Analyses of the Wood Chips and Paperboard Manufacturing Industries as Biomass Markets.
The production of biofuels is a primary intended use for biomass. Because the cellulosic biofuels industry is still developing, there is not yet sufficient capacity in biofuel refineries to utilize biomass crops grown for cellulosic biofuels. However, the bioeconomy overall is growing, and many products other than biofuels can be manufactured from biomass. These byproducts may be alternate markets [i] for …
This On-Farm Biodiesel Production – Steps for Success module is part of the Biomass Energy Training Curriculum, 13 modules developed through a Southern SARE grant and collaboration between Tennessee State University, the University of Tennessee, eXtension.org, and USDA-Rural Development. While it is written as a training guide for TN producers, much of the information is applicable throughout the Southeastern US region.
This curriculum is designed to increase the knowledge base of extension agents and local officials on biomass energy;
