The MA Farm Energy Program (MFEP) is a joint project of the Center for EcoTechnology (CET) and the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR).
Reduce energy use and produce renewable energy
We offer a range of services to the farming community to reduce energy use and produce renewable energy that focus on bringing projects from concept to completion. These include:
- technical resources and referrals
- audits and consultations
- financial incentives, and
- funding facilitation.
Farm viability and practical savings
On-farm energy upgrades improve farm viability and the environmental performance of the agricultural industry in Massachusetts by reducing energy consumption, operating costs, emissions, and dependence on fossil fuels.
The average net income of a Massachusetts farmer is just over $12,000 according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service.
Average annual energy savings from efficiency projects facilitated through MFEP averaged $12,000 per farm in 2009–2010.
Energy efficiency improvements are a sound business decision that can have a significant impact on overall farm viability. The economic benefit of these savings is multiplied as farmers reinvest in the local economy as they maintain and grow their businesses.
Supportive climate and leadership
Forward-thinking energy policies in Massachusetts have combined with supportive agencies and utility programs, financial incentives, national agricultural programs, and good partners to provide fertile ground for farm energy projects in our state.
Since its inception in 2008, MFEP has helped farmers save over $800,000 annually on energy costs.
Massachusetts’ farmers can set an example for other industries in the region by making viable business decisions that improve operations and profitability while minimizing negative environmental impacts of “business as usual.”
As a result of partnerships among farm business owners, government agencies, for-profit practitioners, and public programs, farm energy upgrades are contributing to the region’s environmental goals and the resilience of our agricultural communities.