Saturn Engineering Group is proud to announce its feature in the Summer edition of the ‘Irrigation Australia Journal’ for its instrumental role in the QBEST Ag initiative. This recognition highlights our commitment to driving sustainable and efficient energy use within Queensland’s agricultural sector.
QBEST Ag, spearheaded by the Queensland Farmers’ Federation and supported by the Queensland Government, aims to help small-to-medium-sized agricultural businesses reduce electricity costs. Through sharing practical advice and conducting energy audits, the initiative identifies ways to improve energy efficiency and increase productivity across the industry.
In 2024, Saturn Engineering Group was entrusted to conduct nine onsite farm energy audits as part of QBEST Ag. These audits spanned diverse agricultural operations, including irrigation and pumping systems for cotton, citrus, and sugar farms, as well as energy intensive setups like feedlots and piggeries. Each audit provided actionable insights into energy use, offering tailored recommendations to help farmers optimise their systems, reduce energy consumption, and lower costs.
The results of these audits are being published on the new Ag Energy Hub, a comprehensive online resource for agricultural businesses. The hub includes case studies, tools, and practical examples that demonstrate how energy efficiency measures can drive improved returns and sustainability. Saturn Engineering Group’s case studies from these audits are prominently featured, showcasing real-world solutions and measurable impacts.
Our involvement in QBEST Ag reflects our broader mission to improve water and energy use efficiency in agriculture. Having previously identified gaps in irrigation industry knowledge, we were eager to bring our expertise to the table. These audits allowed us to collaborate with farmers across Queensland, providing innovative solutions tailored to the unique challenges of their operations.
Being featured in the ‘Irrigation Australia Journal’ underscores the significance of this work. The recognition serves as a testament to the dedication of our team and our shared vision for a more sustainable and efficient future for the agricultural sector.
We extend our gratitude to the Queensland Farmers’ Federation and the Queensland Government for supporting this initiative. We also thank the agricultural businesses who welcomed us onto their farms and embraced the opportunity to innovate. Together, we are paving the way for a more sustainable and energy efficient agricultural industry.