Photo: Vern Grubinger, University of Vermont Extension
Efficient use of energy becomes increasingly important with rising energy costs. Energy efficiency is determined by comparing what is actually produced or performed to what could be produced or performed with the same consumption of energy resources.
Although many changes to improve energy efficiency can usually be implemented immediately on a farm, long term efficiency gains come with planning when new or replacement equipment is purchased or new structures are built.
Reducing the amount of energy consumed on the farm not only saves money but also reduces possible pollution and limits the consumption of non-renewable resources.
The links below lead to a set of questions to ask and specific recommendations in different areas of farm energy use that can help improve efficiency and reduce expenses:
- Farm Energy Efficiency Checklist and Tips
- Farm Lighting Energy Efficiency Checklist and Tips
- Farm Shop Energy Efficiency Checklist and Tips
- Grain Drying Energy Efficiency Checklist and Tips
- Greenhouse Energy Conservation Checklist
- Home Energy Efficiency Checklist and Tips
- Irrigation Energy Efficiency Checklist and Tips
- Livestock Buildings Energy Efficiency Checklist and Tips
- Livestock Watering Systems Energy Efficiency Checklist and Tips
- Tractor and Field Operations Energy Efficiency Checklist and Tips
Contributors
Authors
- Carl Pederson, Energy Educator, North Dakota State University
- Vern Grubinger, Professor, University of Vermont Extension
Peer Reviewer
- Cole Gustafson, Biofuels Economist, North Dakota State University*Zane R. Helsel, Extension Specialist in Agricultural Energy, Rutgers University