Energy Efficiency & Renewables

On farm energy use can be a major portion of the farm costs with significant impacts to the bottom line. In addition, there are increasing opportunities to develop renewable energy sources for farm power needs. Technical and financial support is in place to assist Marin’s farmers and ranchers in researching opportunities for increased energy efficiency and cost-share on replace equipment with more energy efficient models. Additionally, there are increased opportunities and potential partnerships to advance renewable energy production.

Energy Efficiency Information and Resources:

California Dairy Energy Efficiency Program provides assistance in retrofitting milk parlor equipment;
Air Quality Initiative describes a cost-share program through USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service; and
Carl Moyer Memorial Air Quality Standards Attainment Program administered by the California Air Resources Board provides incentive grants for cleaner-than-required engines.

Renewable Energy Information and Resources:

California’s renewable energy programs;
California Dairy Power Production Program for examples of methane digestion on dairies;
California Solar Initiative for solar rebate programs; and
Small wind and fuel cell rebate programs.