08/06/07
SAC has launched a package of energy auditing services which aim
to help farmers and growers lower their energy bills, reduce their
carbon footprint and identify opportunities for the generation
of renewable energy on their farms.
SAC Engineers, Rod McGovern and Jim Campbell, with support from
trained SAC Farm Business Consultants, are now offering energy
auditing services to farmers throughout Scotland. The service is
backed up by two new software programs developed by SAC.
Speaking at the launch Dr Stewart Gemmell, Director of SAC Consultancy
Services said,
“With climate change so high on the political agenda, we
are likely to see more regulations on energy use. Being prepared
for these changes now will not only save energy and money right
away but, in the longer term, farmers will be better able to cope
with any future legislation.
“Saving energy makes good business sense as well as being
important for the environment. Energy is not a fixed overhead and
often quite simple measures can reduce energy consumption and make
businesses more competitive.
”The production of renewable energy is an integral part
of the Government's long-term aim of reducing carbon dioxide emissions
by 60% by 2050. It has also set a target of 10% of electricity
supply from renewable energy by 2010. The farming industry is well
placed to reduce its own carbon footprint by taking up opportunities
for on-farm production.”
SAC Energy Efficiency Audit
This service quantifies existing farm energy use and compares that
with benchmarks and targets. Potential savings are identified and ranked by cost/benefit with
an outline plan for implementation. Areas for further investigation
are highlighted. This service is backed up by bespoke SAC software
-“SAVEfuel”- which provides the data and analysis for
the final report.
SAC on-farm Renewable Energy Assessment
This service assesses the potential for on-farm production of renewable
energy, looking at options for producing energy form renewable
sources such as wind, hydro, solar heat, photovoltaics, energy
crops and animal wastes. The SAC designed software package “REfuel” enables
technical feasibility studies to be carried out and also provides
economic assessments (including payback) of opportunities for
renewable energy production. SAC also provides follow up services
such as engineering design and specifications for proposed installations
and business management services for renewables projects.
Further information about the service is available from Rod McGovern
(T: 01224 711107, E: rod.mcgovern@sac.co.uk) or from staff on the
SAC stand at the Highland Show (number 157/158 on 7th Avenue),
beside the main showring.
Notes:
Carbon footprint: Carbon emissions is a shorthand term for carbon
dioxide emissions used in international climate change negotiations.
1 tonne of carbon is equivalent to 3.67 tonnes of carbon dioxide.
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