Market Characterization & Baseline Study

Overview

Let’s face it – when it comes to energy efficiency, farms aren’t exactly the first thing that comes to mind. But that’s exactly why the Connecticut Agriculture Market Characterization and Baseline Study dug in. The mission? Understand how Connecticut’s farms use energy, where they could use less, and how to help them get there (without driving a tractor through red tape). The study involved Connecticut Energy Efficiency Board, as well as Eversource and Avangrid for utility collaboration.

Key Findings

Make Efficiency Upgrades: Add ag-specific measures like fan upgrades, milk coolers, and irrigation variable frequency drives to utility programs.

Create a Trusted Network: Create a network of trusted, in-person advisors who speak tractor and can walk farmers through audits, applications, and finding vendors.

Upgrade Outdated Electrical Systems: Help farms upgrade outdated electrical systems, including those without three-phase power.

Market Smarter & Boost Incentives: Use local channels, real stories, and hands-on support when marketing, and offer better incentives for small farms, while also making financing easier.

About

The Connecticut Energy Efficiency Board is a group of appointed advisors who utilize their experience and expertise to evaluate, advise, and assist the state’s utility companies in developing and implementing comprehensive, cost-effective energy conservation and market transformation plans. The Board ensures these plans help Connecticut consumers reduce energy use in their homes and businesses and help the State meet its changing and growing energy needs.