CET’s Green Business Department helps businesses throughout the state save money and go green through energy conservation, renewable energy, and waste reduction assistance.

Farms are one type of business we help to learn about and implement cost-effective energy improvements. We have found that many farmers miss out on grants, rebates, or tax credits for energy efficiency measures because they do not have the time or means to research and pursue what’s out there. In fact, many farmers we work with choose not to use computers at all!

CET administers the Massachusetts Farm Energy Program (MFEP) to help farmers navigate the complex process of applying for government grants and other opportunities for financial or technical assistance. This program, sponsored by the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, has helped farmers save over $800,000 per year in energy costs since its creation in 2008.

GreenhouseMFEP’s services include technical assistance, guidance on financial incentives, and funding for up to 75% of the cost of a technical energy audit that includes an analysis of potential cost and energy savings. In addition, participants can receive up to $5000 in incentives for installing energy efficiency equipment. Some examples of steps that farmers can take to go green and save money are installing more efficient equipment for refrigeration, heating and ventilation, lighting, and hot water.

Anh Tuan