Energy use

Energy sources such as electricity, fuel and gas are a significant cost for pork producers, as prices have risen by 25 to 40 per cent in recent years.

'Understanding energy in pig production' covers a number of topics including how to monitor energy use and understanding electricity tariffs. Producers who implement the information outlined in the manual will be able to better understand, compare, analyse and determine measures to reduce or improve their energy consumption.

To better understand your energy use and identify opportunities to reduce it, consider completing the energy self-assessment.

Biogas is a renewable fuel. It’s produced by capturing the methane released when effluent (manure) breaks down. Up to 80% of farm emissions can be reduced by using biogas. A 500 sow, farrow-to-finish piggery has the potential to produce enough energy to power:

• 3.1 million 100 watt light globes for one hour
• 62 houses for one year

Aussie pig producers are increasingly becoming interested in biogas technology. To address this, we’ve developed a risk-based Code of Practice. The Code can help you understand:

• A risk-based approach to biogas plants
• Covered anaerobic digestion systems
• Existing regulations
• Operation and safety

Solar is a great opportunity to invest in to become fully or partially energy self-sufficient. Solar is a proven technology that is constantly seeing improvements in longevity, generation potential, and ease of installation and maintenance.

Use our solar calculator to see if solar might be a viable option for your business

The Emissions Reduction Fund gives producers incentives to reduce emissions through the animal effluent management method. If you use this method, you may be eligible to be an animal effluent management project.

For more information visit the Clean Energy Regulator.

APL have also created a catalogue (last updated May 2022) which outlines the funding opportunities available to producers looking to implement sustainable technologies on farm.