The audit of this vineyard and winemaker evaluated a number of actions with varying payback periods, including insulation, replacement of compressors, lighting controls and disconnecting unused pumps. Two initiatives had a payback period of around 3 years including insulation and disconnecting unused pumps. The audit also found a tariff review might save the business over $2,500 per year. Emission savings have been estimated to be 1.2 t CO2-e per year.
The wine estate, near Stanthorpe, covers approximately 30 hectares, most of which is used for vineyards, and produces wines from a range of grape varieties. Most of the energy consumption on-site is used in the main manufacturing shed where the wine is produced using a variety of pumps, refrigeration units and air compressors. Energy is also used for irrigation pumping as well as other amenities including a restaurant and residence.
You can focus your decision making when you understand your business. The energy audit has provided us with an in depth understanding of our energy usage, the good and the bad. We now have a defined list of ‘initiatives’ which we can tackle, one at a time, as we are able to fund them.