Interest in reducing the energy consumption of livestock has certainly grown, not only from a consumer’s perspective, but also from producers—for both cost-saving and environmental reasons.
For example, within swine facilities, electricity is used in two major areas. First, for delivering feed and water, and secondly, for removing heat in the summer and providing heat in winter. This raises the question—are there things producers can do in the summer to lessen the need for electricity and make facilities more efficient? Similarly, are there things producers can do during the winter months to reduce the use of propane?
Researchers at the U of MN West Central Research and Outreach Center (WCROC), Morris, have been working to address these challenges by developing optimized and cost-effective energy systems for both swine and dairy production systems. The Midwest Farm Energy Conference, hosted by the WCROC, will showcase energy efficient technologies like these.
The conference begins on Tuesday, June 13, 2017 with presentations and tours planned through Wednesday, June 14, 2017. Sessions will include energy-optimized systems for dairy production (June 13), energy conservation and generation in swine facilities (June 14), as well as the opportunity to network with energy experts, research personnel, and industry professionals. Tours of the WCROC swine facilities, including solar photovoltaic systems and novel sow cooling systems, will also be provided. Click here to see the full agenda.
“If producers are interested in the opportunity to reduce their energy expenses, this is the place to learn it,” said Dr. Michael Brumm, independent swine industry consultant. “If interested in renewable (such as solar, wind, etc.), this is the place to see it.” Dr. Brumm is scheduled to present at the Midwest Farm Energy Conference.
Get $20 off registration by signing up before April 15 (regular full conference rate $80). Early bird full conference rate = $60. Conference packages include full conference, single day rate, keynote dinner only, and student pricing.
As if this wasn’t all good enough, Wednesday June 14th, Fritz Ebinger with the Clean Energy Resource Teams will be on an application panel from 11am to noon about financing, economics, and case studies for farm-based renewable energy projects. Now you have to attend!
Click here to learn more about the conference and register to attend >>
