Energy Options & Energy-Saving Technologies for Greenhouse Production By Paul A. Thomas & Forrest Stegelin University of Georgia 2006 Oklahoma Conference Sponsored by The OFA
Natural Gas and Propane will not be economically viable fuel sources for greenhouse production within the next five years….unless you can raise the price of your product 18% -28%
We Must Raise Our Prices! 5.13% Annual increase
Reducing Energy Costs: Are There Easy Solutions? Nope!
Do an Energy Audit Do a Site Inspection Do an Inquisition: Evaluate all Hidden Costs! (product handling, etc) Hold a Staff Meeting and reward Input ! Before you blow your top, do a comprehensive business assessment
Consider Your Options Reduce Perform general maintenance Reduce or eliminate low profit crops Reduce high risk customers Re-train employees for efficiency Set new company policies! Keep better records…and use them!
Do Your Homework on Energy Alternatives
Plan For The Future Discuss 5 and 10 year plans for business Consider re-tooling over time: Greenhouse glazing Heat curtains New heaters / boilers Consider long-term investment effects
Tighten Your Belt Review Yearly Expenses – Yearly! Evaluate Procedures / Policies Eliminate Shrinkage Conserve Energy Expenditures Reconsider Your Technology Level
Do all the Small Percentage Decreases in Cost Add Up to Something Worthwhile? Let’s Ask Forrest…..