SAVE ENERGY
ON-FARM
IT JUST MAKES SENSE
Save Energy On-Farm Project Overview
Why get involved?
Everyone’s got their own reasons for getting involved, and that’s a good thing.
For some, it’s about saving money or making the farm more resilient. For others, it’s about looking after the environment, futureproofing the business, or staying ahead of new rules and regulations. Some people are driven by doing their bit for climate change, or by wanting to feel good about making a positive difference.
Whatever the reason, it all adds up to stronger farms, stronger communities, and a stronger future for Taranaki.
About the project
The Save Energy On-Farm Project began with 20 free on-farm energy assessments and has since focused on turning those insights into practical, farmer-focused resources. A key output is the Solar PV Guide, designed to support farmers to make informed decisions about investing in solar, based on their own farm systems, goals and starting point.
For some farms, solar PV is a straightforward opportunity. For others, it’s about understanding what changes could be made now or over time to get the best value from solar in the future. The guide steps through the key questions to consider, explains why they matter, and includes a simple decision tree to help farmers work out what’s right for their situation.
This work builds on earlier project outputs, including the At a Glance energy efficiency guides, the Advisor Toolkit for on-farm walkarounds, and a series of workshops with farmers and industry focused on energy use, savings and what drives real on-farm change.
Together, these resources are about supporting practical, lasting improvements to on-farm energy use, grounded in real experience and farmer needs.
Thank you to our collaborators
We’re also working closely with EECA, Powerco and Todd Energy and appreciate their support. Throughout the project we are engaging with key stakeholders.
Our timeline
October 2023: Project launched and network of champions established
October 2023 – mid 2024: On-farm assessments completed
2024 – 2025: Toolkit, products, services and guidelines created; workshops held and farm advisors trained
August – December 2025: Engaging farmers on solar decisions and developing new tools
