Developing an on-farm energy management strategy
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EmailPower companies and the Federal government continue to target agriculture in an unprecedented effort to entice farmers to implement energy conservation practices.
Michigan State University Extension, Consumers Energy, and DTE Energy are sponsoring a series of workshops across Michigan designed to help row crop, livestock and dairy farmers learn how to use an energy audit to develop an energy management strategy that:
- Reduces overall farm energy expenses.
- Effectively leverages utility company rebates and Federal grants and low interest loans to implement energy conservation practices recommended by an audit.
- Facilitates applying for renewable energy project funding.
Michigan State University studies have shown, on average, a 46 percent reduction in energy expenses when recommended energy conservation practices have been implemented. Power companies and the Federal government continue to target agriculture in an unprecedented effort to entice farmers to implement energy conservation practices. Utilities are offering substantial rebates and the Federal government has grants and low interest loans to implement recommended energy conservation practices.
At this program, attendees will hear from specialists from Michigan State University Extension, as well as power company representatives and farmers with practical experience in implementing energy conservation practices that saved them money. Attendees will also receive practical instruction from USDA Natural Resources Conservation Services and Rural Development personnel on applying for grant dollars for energy conservation practices. Michigan farmers have enjoyed great success in getting USDA grant dollars. Please join us at the location nearest your farm!
Date: Tuesday, January 13, 2015
Location: DTE Energy North Area Energy Center, 4100 Doerr Road, Cass City, MI 48726
Date: Wednesday, January 14, 2015
Location: Smith Hall, 800 Sickles St, St. Johns, MI 48879
Date: Thursday, January 15, 2015
Location: Olive Township Hall, 6480 136th Ave., Holland, MI 49424
The program will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at each site and will include lunch. Lunch at the Holland and St. Johns sites is sponsored by Consumers Energy. Lunch at the Cass City site is sponsored by DTE Energy. There is a $10 registration fee to participate in this program. The same agenda will be offered at each meeting site and registration is due by Jan. 7. If you have questions about the program, contact me at 616-994-4547 or gouldm@msu.edu.
