Understanding electrical demand and the difference between single- and three-phase motors can reduce on-farm energy use and save farmers’ money. A new publication from Iowa State University Extension can help farmers learn how to control demand charges on their electric bills and use three-phase motors to avoid problems with electric supply.
“Electric Savings: Understanding Demand and Three-Phase Motor Use” (PM 2089B) is available to download from the Extension Online Store.
“Farmers subject to demand charges can manage and lessen electrical costs by knowing how these charges are assessed,” said Jane Flammang, ISU Extension program coordinator for the new statewide Farm Energy Conservation and Efficiency educational initiative. “And understanding how three-phase motors fit into an on-farm distribution can help farmers work with their utility providers to avoid supply problems. Sometimes a simple change in your practices can reduce your energy use and save money.”
This publication is part of a series of farm energy conservation and efficiency educational materials being developed through the Farm Energy Conservation and Efficiency educational initiative, Flammang explained. The purpose is to increase farmers’ awareness of opportunities for improving efficient use of farm energy. The initiative also will help farmers explore alternatives to reduce farm energy demand and to improve their farms’ overall profitability in a rapidly changing energy environment.
Iowa State University Extension received a grant from the Iowa Energy Center to carry out the initiative. Extension and the Iowa Energy Center are cooperating with Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, Central Iowa Power Cooperative (CIPCO), the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives, Consumers Energy, Alliant Energy, MidAmerican Energy, Office of Energy Independence and USDA in the effort.
For more information, go to www.extension.iastate.edu/store. See especially the topic environment – energy.