The new Save on Energy AgriPump Rebate Program, available through Hydro One and Niagara Peninsula Energy Inc., provides rebates to farmers looking for a more efficient, constant pressure pump.

This program is only available to agriculture customers in Ontario in Hydro One and Niagara Peninsula Energy Inc.’s service territories.

The program was designed with busy farmers in mind, so the rebate of up to $610 is conveniently applied at the point of purchase. Farmers who upgrade to a more efficient pump have reported energy savings of up to 40 percent, reduced maintenance costs, less overall wear-and-tear and a quick one-day installation.

The program is open to all farming applications, including livestock facilities, greenhouses and vineyards.

The rebate is based on the potential energy savings and the corresponding horsepower of the pump, which ranges from 0.5 to 10 horsepower. The higher the horsepower of the pump purchased, the greater the energy savings and incentive.

“As Ontario’s largest electricity provider to farming customers, we are committed to offering a variety of energy-saving programs to help them reduce their electricity bill and deliver a positive return to their bottom line,” says Warren Lister, vice president, customer service. “We know being able to better manage energy costs means farmers can reinvest in their operations to grow and expand.”

There are three types of pumps to consider: submersible, end-suction and vertical multi-stage.

Submersible pumps are typically used to deliver water from wells, as the motors are sealed, can be submersed and are placed at the bottom of the borehole.

These pumps are cylindrical, with the pump and motor often packaged together as one piece. It’s advised to contact a licensed well contractor for any well installations.

End-suction pumps are the most basic type of above-grade pump, with water entering at the top and exiting from the side. They boost the water from one tank to another or from a tank to a field. They have a wide range of uses.

Vertical multi-stage pumps are another type of above-grade pump, with similar functions as end-suction pumps. However, because of how they are built with multiple small impellers stacked up in a cylinder, they take less floor space and can be placed in-line in a pipe (i.e., water enters on the side and exits on the opposite side, making a 90-degree angle).

Not sure which type best suits your needs? A licensed contractor can recommend the best pump for your operation.

Hydro One has also developed a variety of new initiatives specifically for dairy operations as part of the Save on Energy Retrofit Program.

These include incentives offered for energy-efficient livestock waterers, upgrades for dairy plate coolers, milk scroll compressors and hot water systems. Incentives range from $200 to $750 per unit.

“We listened when our dairy customers told us about their challenges and now offer conservation programs designed for their equipment,” Lister says. “I encourage anyone interested in making energy-efficient upgrades to contact us. We are here to help you find ways to make your business more efficient and, ultimately, more profitable.”

The conservation programs available don’t end there. Switching to LED lighting in your barn is one of the best investments a farm can make. Through the Save on Energy Small Business Lighting program, Hydro One offers up to $2,000 in lighting incentives.

A qualified energy auditor will visit your farm to evaluate your lighting needs and create a customized plan. Hydro One takes care of the application process from beginning to end as well as the installation.

The company also offers Save on Energy High Performance New Construction incentives for any additions to your farm.

Whether you are breaking ground for a new barn or breaking down walls, high-efficiency lighting, circulation fans and other equipment can save you money on operation costs. 

PHOTO: Hydro One, an Ontario utility company, is offering financial incentives for farmers to upgrade pumps, livestock waterers, plate coolers, milk scroll compressors, hot water systems and lighting for more energy-efficient options. Photo by Mike Dixon.

Article provided by Hydro One. Hydro One Limited is an electricity transmission and distribution utility serving the province of Ontario. Since 2008, Hydro One has helped more than 12,500 farming customers save approximately $36 million through conservation programs. Learn more at Hydro One's website.