LPG is a highly versatile energy source for agricultural businesses and remains a critical part of Australia’s energy mix as we transition to a Net Zero economy by 2050.
With so many agricultural businesses located in off-grid rural or remote locations across Australia, LPG is an essential energy source for high grade heat in large volumes — which can make electricity an unsuitable option.
As an alternative fuel for a range of agricultural applications, LPG is also a credible pathway for businesses seeking to reduce their own carbon emissions and decarbonise their operations.
LPG for crop, livestock and poultry applications
When yield and efficiency is everything, consistent, controllable and economical heating and hot water is crucial. Add the unique, near- complete combustion properties of LPG and the low risk of burning or contaminating produce, you can see why Australian agricultural operators depend on LPG to meet their business energy need.
LPG agricultural applications:
- Grain drying: high grade heat in large volumes to support post- harvest operations
- Heating: large area space heating for nurseries, greenhouses, stables and sheds
- Livestock farming: instantaneous hot water for sanitising livestock processing areas
- Flame weeding: highly controlled, chemical free weeding ideal for organic producers
- Nurseries and greenhouses: CO2 enrichment to maximise photosynthesis potential
LPG as a substitute for diesel
LPG produces 45% less CO2 than grid electricity and 99% less NOx pollutants than diesel. For many stationary engine applications where a diesel tank of fuel is required, LPG is a flexible and efficient energy source. Unlike diesel, LPG does not deteriorate in tanks and does not require water to be drained from the bottom of tanks over time.
Benefits of LPG:
- Suitable for fixed diesel installations and vehicles
- The rate of substitution is typically 30-35% and depends on engine size and application
- A diesel substitution kit is fitted to the engine without the need to make any modifications
- The kit can be easily removed and installed on another engine
- Diesel Substitution Control Units ensure the optimum substitution rate
- Engine monitoring and data logging systems continuously check engine performance and fuel consumption
- Reduced maintenance costs due to cleaner burning fuel
- Where CO2 is used to modify the growth environment to be recaptured from flue gas and re-used in the growing process
- Transitioning to LPG is increasingly cost effective – even when government fuel rebates and equipment conversion costs are considered
