Hot water, milk cooling, and harvesting account for a combined 80 per cent of on-farm energy use for dairy farmers, so reducing consumption and maximising energy efficiency has never been more vital.
With rising energy costs and climate concerns front of mind, more businesses are seeking a sustainable alternative.
The good news: small changes in when and how you use energy can deliver big savings and improve resilience while powering your business towards a greener future.
Shift energy usage to low‑price windows
On a wholesale linked electricity plan, prices often dip during the middle of the day when renewable generation is high. Schedule energy‑intensive tasks, bulk cooling, milk pre‑cooling, irrigation and grain drying for those low‑price periods. Even small shifts each day can lower bills without disrupting operations or yield.
Use thermal mass and pre‑cooling
Make the most of thermal storage. Pre‑cool milk and chilled rooms during cheap periods so refrigeration cycles are shorter during peak price windows. This can reduce peak demand charges and smooth your consumption across the day.
Automate and control flexible loads
Smart controllers, timers and simple automations let you run pumps and compressors when prices are lowest. By pairing controls with real‑time price signals, you avoid the need for constant price monitoring.
Leverage solar and battery storage
Onsite batteries can store cheap energy for use during price spikes and, if configured to do so, can provide back-up during outages. For 24/7 operations like dairies, batteries can significantly cut peak charges.
Join flexibility programs
Many energy retailers reward flexible demand. Participating in demand response programs can turn time-flexible operations into an additional revenue stream.
Need energy advice?
Flow Power’s energy specialists are here to help, connecting dairy farms to the benefits of wholesale pricing, renewable generation and smart battery solutions, with tools and technology to optimise and automate energy use.
Phone 1300 080 608 or email hello@flowpower.com.au or visit
https://flowpower.com.au/smart-energy-solutions-for-australias-dairy-industry/