Assessment Of Energy Usage Patterns And Improvement Opportunities For Small-Scale Farms In The Western North Carolina Local Food System

This pilot study used a self-reported survey to create energy use profiles (electricity, propane, natural gas, heating oil, diesel, gasoline, and wood) and identify energy use improvement opportunities for small farms participating in local markets in western North Carolina. Higher proportions of energy use across all study farms, as compared to the centralized agricultural system, came from gasoline and electricity, with high variability in energy usage mixes between and within farm types. Opportunities for on-farm energy improvement (mostly in tractor use and irrigation) and system-wide energy improvement (mostly in transportation and storage) were identified. Solar energy resources were available on 94% of study farms, and micro-hydro and passive pump developments were possible for an estimated 40% of farms. However, only 7-10% of the farms were eligible for USDA energy grants. Energy efficiencies per unit of land (in GJ/ha) for each farm type were compared with those observed in national agricultural statistics, but the limited data about indirect energy usage and agricultural output per hectare suggested further study is needed to better understand similarities and differences. Ultimately, a more focused survey with clarifying follow-up phone interviews could provide a more thorough portrayal of small farm energy usage, needs, and improvement opportunities.