Propane-Powered Irrigation Engines: Advantages for Agriculture Producers
Agriculture producers in the Midwest are anticipating a normal growing season and grain drying year in 2023 based on corn planting dates. This dry spring presents an excellent opportunity for marketers to educate farmers about the numerous benefits of choosing propane irrigation engines when upgrading or replacing outdated equipment.
Compared to diesel-powered engines, propane units offer higher efficiency, reliability, cleanliness, and cost-effectiveness. Farmers who have made the switch reported a 28% improvement in performance compared to their previous diesel engines, along with fuel savings of up to 45%.
Leading engine manufacturers have developed today’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)- and California Air Resources Board (CARB)-certified propane engines specifically for propane use. These engines provide consistent power when and where it’s needed, ensuring farmers have reliable access to the necessary power for their operations. Additionally, propane’s portability and independence from the grid eliminate concerns about power interruptions or gas line fluctuations.
Propane-powered irrigation engines incorporate the latest technological advancements, delivering up to 300 horsepower of continuous power. Remote monitoring and operating systems are also available, enabling producers to better manage their operations.
Environmental considerations are vital, and propane-powered irrigation engines emit up to 18% fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to gasoline and diesel alternatives. This not only reduces environmental impact but also contributes to cleaner engine operation. With fewer deposits on engine components, farmers can expect longer engine life and fewer maintenance issues.
Unlike diesel and gasoline options, farmers who choose propane do not need to develop complex EPA spill prevention plans. EPA- and CARB-certified propane models are available for sale in all 50 states.
A notable engine in the agriculture industry is the new 7.3L offering from EDI, which will find significant use in the agricultural irrigation market.
Double incentives are available for purchasers of propane-powered irrigation engines through PERC’s Propane Farm Incentive Program (PFIP). These engines, certified by EPA and/or CARB, qualify for payouts of $300 per liter of displacement for pumping.
PFIP is a research program that provides financial incentives of up to $5,000 toward the purchase of new propane-powered farm equipment. In exchange, participants agree to share real-world performance data with PERC.
To aid farmers directly impacted by the Midwest tornado outbreak, incentives are doubled for eligible propane-powered equipment, offering up to $10,000 in support. Affected farmers can earn double the incentive amount for qualifying propane-powered equipment, including $300 per liter of fuel displacement for propane-powered irrigation engines. This enhanced incentive program is available until December 31, 2023.
Considering the challenges posed by industry wide driver shortages and the extended time required for emergency driver training, marketers must plan with agriculture customers. Encouraging early tank fills ensures farmers have an adequate propane supply to power their farms throughout the harvest and winter seasons, while also benefiting from potential cost savings.
With the uncertainty of natural disasters, these additional incentive dollars aim to support producers in their recovery from tornado-induced destruction.
Marketers should engage with customers now to discuss the optimal early-fill strategies and secure propane supply for uninterrupted farming operations.
