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FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky farmers can take steps to improve the energy efficiency of their operations and reduce the impact of rising energy costs, according to Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer.
“Farmers across our state are struggling to keep pace with the increasing cost of fuel and energy,” Farmer said. “These day-to-day costs can make or break a farm. Farmers can act now to reduce their energy consumption and save a lot of money over the long haul.”
Lighting and appliances are two key areas where farms can reduce their energy usage. Farmers can cut back on lighting costs in barns, milking parlors, tobacco stripping rooms and poultry houses by using fluorescent lights instead of standard incandescent lamps. By purchasing newer, more energy-efficient motors, fans and pumps, farmers can potentially reduce their energy expenses by 20 to 30 percent.
Farmers can decrease fuel usage by properly maintaining and operating tractors and other power equipment in the following ways:
• Keep fuel systems clean by replacing fuel filters regularly;
• Service air cleaners to enhance air flow for fuel combustion;
• Clean fuel injectors for efficient combustion of fuel;
• Use correct viscosity of oil for proper lubrication;
• Operate tractors in higher speed gears, using lower throttle settings to conserve fuel;
• Use proper ballast or weight to avoid excessive wheel slip and increased fuel use;
• Check tire pressures frequently – worn tires increase fuel consumption;
• Keep all ground-engaging tools sharp to increase efficiency;
• Shut off diesel engines – no idling;
• Consider conservation tillage to avoid excess tractor passes; and
• Consider using biodiesel or ethanol to decrease emissions.
“Adopting these practices will enable our farmers to get the most fuel and power for their hard-earned dollar,” Farmer added. “Reducing the energy consumed on our farms also improves our environment.”
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