MDC Encourages Farmers to look at Energy Savings

With the recent energy price hikes by Npower and now EDF, the Milk Development Council (MDC) is encouraging dairy farmers to analyse their energy costs to see where money is being spent and what savings can be made.

An energy audit can be a good starting point when trying to find ways of being more energy efficient. The process will:

- Help farmers understand their electricity consumption and patterns of usage

- Analyse the electricity contract in terms of price, tariff, service and payment method

- Benchmark a farm with other similar farmers to see if energy use is 'normal'

- Analyse the cost savings potential new equipment could make in terms of capital cost versus savings

Outside of the audit farmers can:

- Check electricity use and switch to the cheaper overnight rate where possible, for example to heat water for daytime use

- Check tariffs to find suppliers who offer cheap night and weekend rates to suit their milking patterns

- Ensure the milk tank is well insulated

- Check the plate heat exchangers, bulk tank and compressors and see if efficiency can be improved

- Switch to energy efficient fittings and bulbs as and when required

Kate Cross, extension officer at the MDC says: "With these latest price rises and other companies expected to follow suit it is essential for dairy farmers to do whatever they can to maintain profitability."

Dairy farmers interested in hearing more should contact their local extension officer. An MDC fact sheet on energy efficiency is available on the website at www.mdc.org or contact the publications department on 01285 646510 for a copy.