DCSix Technologies has been working closely with customers in the dairy sector over the past two years. Dairy farmers like many other industries have concerns regarding energy consumption and its impact on the environment. Fortunately, advances in technology have led to significant energy savings in dairy parlours, benefiting both farmers and the environment.
One of the most significant advances in dairy parlour energy savings is the use of heat recovery systems. Heat recovery systems capture waste heat from equipment milk coolers and use it to preheat water for sanitation. By using this waste heat instead of generating new heat, dairy farmers can reduce their energy consumption and save on their energy bills.
Another technology that has led to energy savings in dairy parlours is the use of variable speed drives (VSDs). VSDs are electronic devices that control the speed of milk and vacuum pumps, allowing them to operate more efficiently.
Another way that dairy farmers can save energy is through the use of LED lighting. LED lighting uses significantly less energy than traditional lighting sources and lasts much longer, reducing the need for frequent bulb replacements. By switching to LED lighting, dairy farmers can reduce their energy consumption and save money on maintenance costs.
Finally, Solar PV is the most prevalent form of microgeneration in Ireland today, it can present a very attractive investment opportunity provided the rate of self-consumption is high. A 6kVA solar south facing installation will typically generate 5,200 kWh/year in southwest Ireland. Self-consumption is the proportion of the electricity this is consumed within the house/farm. If all the energy from the solar PV is self-consumed it should result in a payback period of less than 6 years. Further to this If eligible, the Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS) provides a 40% grant on a solar PV investment, while young qualified farmers can get up to 60% in grant aid.
In conclusion, advances in technology have led to significant energy savings in dairy parlours, benefiting both farmers and the environment. By using VSDs, heat recovery systems, LED lighting, and solar PV, dairy farmers can reduce their energy consumption and save money on their energy bills while also reducing their environmental impact. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovations in dairy parlour energy savings, helping to create a more sustainable and energy-efficient dairy farming industry.
You can read more about the findings of the West Kerry Dairy Farmers Energy Master Plan.
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