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The Australis Plants Case Study

The recent energy audit conducted at Australis Plants has revealed that the benefits of energy efficiency extend far beyond mere savings on utility bills. Dr. Greg O’Sullivan shared pivotal insights from this audit during his presentation at the 2024 Renewables in Agriculture Conference, highlighting how enhanced energy management has led not only to significant cost reductions but also to improved productivity within the nursery.

The energy audit identified various recommendations that were put into action, allowing Australis Plants to take advantage of a grant available at the time, which facilitated the implementation of these improvements. The positive results prompted the creation of a case study documenting the project’s impact, demonstrating the measurable energy savings and overall operational enhancements.

During the conference’s Energy Audits session, Dr. O’Sullivan detailed several key upgrades that have revolutionized operations at Australis Plants. One of the most noteworthy changes involved the upgraded irrigation system, which now allows for simultaneous irrigation of six zones instead of just two. This crucial enhancement has led to a remarkable reduction in pump operating time by a third and enabled operations to occur during daylight hours, maximizing efficiency.

Another significant upgrade was the installation of a new bore pump, which can fill the tank in half the time of the previous system. By incorporating a timer, the bore pump operates only during solar generating periods, aligning energy use with availability and further optimizing efficiency.

The audit also revealed that a single aerator nozzle, which oxidized soluble iron and manganese, was restricting flow and increasing energy consumption. In response, this nozzle was replaced with four new nozzles, greatly improving water flow and reducing energy expenditures.

The financial benefits of these changes are evident. Electricity costs at Australis Plants have dropped dramatically from $7,723 in 2019/20 to $3,223 in 2023/24
However, Dr. O’Sullivan emphasised that the improvements in productive capabilities—facilitated by these energy-saving measures—have not been fully reflected in the calculated savings. He stated, “The facilitation of expansion and improved productivity hasn’t been factored into the energy savings presented, but it would be more significant.”

He further added, “The solar panels and more efficient and reliable irrigation system have positioned us better to increase our production over time.” This holistic approach to energy efficiency not only supports cost savings but also ensures long-term sustainability and growth for Australis Plants.

Located in Helidon within the Lockyer Valley, Australis Plants is a wholesale provider of olive and ornamental trees. With the successful implementation of energy-efficient practices, they have set a benchmark for the agricultural industry.

For more insights into energy efficiency on the farm, explore our collection of case studies that showcase successful transformations in agricultural operations.
https://www.qldagenergyhub.com.au/news/energy-efficiency-more-than-bill-savings