Upgrade clean water pumps more cost effectively with these rebates
Water pumping continues to be one of the most energy-consuming operations, making it more important than ever for California agriculture businesses to use water more efficiently. Whether you are a dairy or livestock farm, a greenhouse, a winery or in crop production, higher efficiency water pumps can improve water flow to crops, support your water conservation efforts, reduce energy costs and make a positive impact on your bottom line.
The Agriculture Energy Savings Action Plan (AESAP), a PG&E energy-efficiency program implemented and managed by TRC Companies, is now offering rebates up to $20 per pump motor horsepower to make clean water pumps more affordable. AESAP makes the rebate process simple. There’s no pre-approval process to wait for. You can contact TRC directly and they will guide you to qualifying pumps that meet the higher efficiency standards.
Once you purchase qualifying equipment, you can fill out the rebate application form available on TRC’s website, and submit it with a paid invoice. TRC will then verify the installation, send your paperwork back to you for final signature and issue your rebate check within 1-2 months upon application submission.
Clean water pump rebates are applicable only for pumps that are intended for agricultural, commercial and industrial sectors with a nominal horsepower rating of ≤250 and meet the pump energy index (PEI) requirements specified. In addition, the PEI should be confirmed on the Hydraulic Institute (HI) database. Review all other requirements on page 4 of the AESAP rebate catalog.
How to identify your pump efficiency
Advanced Pumping Efficiency Program, managed through the Center for Irrigation Technology at Fresno State, offers pump-efficiency tests measuring various aspects of the pump’s operation. These tests provide helpful information to perform an objective economic analysis about retrofitting and repairing if you are in doubt. Regular tests are recommended to ensure your water pump is functioning efficiently.
Energy savings with variable frequency drives
Adding a variable frequency drive (VFD) to your irrigation pumps may enable you to reduce your irrigation system’s operating pressure, thus reducing energy consumed by pumps. Adding a VFD also enables you to vary the flow of water as needed for your irrigation schedules, while providing additional benefits such as soft-start capability and enhanced performance of equipment. Rebates are available for VFD upgrades.
We’re here to help
PG&E offers many other resources for agriculture customers.
To identify the best solutions for your business, let our dedicated Agriculture Energy Advisors walk you through the available technologies, tools and rebates by calling our Agriculture Customer Service Center at 1-877-3276 or emailing us at smallbusinessresources@pge.com.