Energy use in agriculture.
Caldwell A., Jackson K., Theden U.
Agricultural Science 7 : 41-43
Abstract : A number of energy efficiency projects undertaken by the Australian Energy Research and Development Corporation are reviewed: 1.?Demonstration units were set up to evaluate ice-banks and direct expansion refrigeration as methods of milk cooling on the farm. Results show ice-banks to have 31-46% lower running costs. 2.?An installation for drying export market hay before shipment using a solar collector is described. Drying efficiency and cost analysis is considered and details of a commercially sized operation are discussed. 3.?Production of high quality dried food using heat pump driers is discussed. A drying efficiency of 120% was obtained for a range of products including ginger, mangoes, broccoli, basil, potatoes, crocodile, mutton, scallops, prawns and fish. 4.?Brief details of cost-effective solar-powered water pumping systems are given.