Energy Loan Fund

This program assists member farmers to improve their energy use technologies, and to develop energy management plans for their farms. For example, a variable frequency drive (VFD) vacuum pump controller can reduce electrical use between 40% or more during milking, improve teat & udder health, increase the life of a pump, and can reduce pump noise!

Farmers can apply for just the VSD, but a Farm Energy Audit is encouraged, as well. This includes an assessment of the farm’s potential for renewable energy strategies. A unique energy-use profile will be established from this audit that identifies specific conservation potential, efficiency requirements, and renewable energy capabilities. An energy management plan, incorporating the most practical of these strategies, will be created from this profile.

The audit and plan development will be part of NOFA-VT’s Technical Assistance Program, in cooperation with Integrated Energy Solutions, Inc., a company specializing in on-farm energy management. The program first focus is for dairy and livestock members, and then expanded to encompass all farmer members of NOFA-VT. In 2007, we expect to conduct energy audits and develop energy management plans for 40-50 farms.

Efficiency Concentration:

The audit and planning process will focus on the benefits each farm can gain from:

  1. Installation of a variable frequency drive (VFD) vacuum pump controller, or other appropriate technologies;
  2. Improved servicing and upgrade of the milking, milk cooling, and barn ventilation systems;
  3. Lighting systems effectiveness and efficiency;
  4. Identify energy usages that are excessive, and offer choices for their reduction.

Renewable Strategies:

  • Wind: We are gathering criteria and capability to monitor and assess on-site wind energy generation.
  • Manure Digestion: We are studying the options for small-scale manure & cellulosic digestion technology to produce methane, bedding, and soil nutrients.
  • Milk Cooling: We are exploring alternative renewable energy strategies for milk cooling.

Loan Amount

  • $3,000 - $4,000

Rate

  • Fixed rate of 4.0% as of July 2007

Terms

  • 1-5 years

Note: There is no pre-payment penalty for the payback of loans.

Collateral

  • Purchased equipment