At NFU Energy, we recognise that energy efficiency is crucial for building a sustainable and profitable farming business. While our Energy Audits deliver an in-depth analysis of how, when, and where energy is used to reduce costs and boost efficiency, there are a few simple steps you can implement right away to make a difference. If you're ready to take immediate action, here are four practical ways to start reducing energy consumption and increasing your farm’s efficiency.
Track Your Kilowatt Hours
Understanding your energy usage is the first step in cutting it down. Start by monitoring the amount of fuel, gas, and electricity used across your operations. Use energy monitoring tools to break down consumption by system, which will help you pinpoint areas that have the potential for efficiency improvements. This data will be the foundation for making informed energy management choices.
Upgrade Your Equipment
With a better grasp on energy use, think about upgrading to more energy-efficient equipment. Assess the costs of investing in modern technologies and compare them to potential savings. Popular choices include inverter-driven fans, pumps, motors, heat recovery systems, light sensors, and timers. These upgrades can lead to significant reductions in energy use and operating expenses.
Fine-Tune Your System
Even with updated equipment, further gains can be made by optimizing system performance. Run equipment during off-peak energy hours, such as using an Economy 7 tariff overnight or utilizing solar power during the day. Explore thermal energy storage options, like storing hot or cold water, to use surplus energy more effectively. Linking systems to repurpose waste energy, such as using heat from refrigeration to warm water, can further cut costs.
Validate Your Savings
To gauge the success of your energy-saving efforts, use measurement tools to create a before-and-after comparison of your energy use. This verification is essential not only for tracking improvement but also for meeting the requirements of programs that demand proof of energy savings and carbon reduction.
These actions provide a strong foundation for improving energy efficiency, lowering costs, and enhancing sustainability. For more comprehensive insights, NFU Energy’s Energy Audits offer a detailed view of your energy profile and actionable strategies for long-term savings. Whether you’re aiming for minor improvements or major overhauls, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
For more information or to book an on-site energy efficiency audit visit our dedicated page.