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Agricultural and Energy Engineering Assistance

Elevated solar panels installed over rows of vegetable crops on a farm, demonstrating a dual-use agrivoltaic system.

UMass Clean Energy Extension (CEE) provides farm energy audits that help Massachusetts farmers cut operating costs and access public incentive funding.

We deliver professional energy assessments aligned with U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) program requirements. Our role is to clarify program criteria, develop practical recommendations that meet those criteria, and help producers move from audit findings to funded projects.

What We Offer

  • Farm Energy Audits aligned with USDA NRCS standards and state incentive programs
  • Technical Guidance on agricultural energy upgrades and controls
  • Program-Ready Documentation that supports eligibility and cost-share applications
  • Education and Materials to support informed decisions about farm energy systems

Please note: CEE does not provide engineering design or construction services.

NRCS Program Focus Areas

CEE supports NRCS field staff and producers with energy-focused input for conservation planning. We prioritize measures that reduce fuel and electricity use and strengthen farm resilience. Current focus areas include:

  • Greenhouses and Floriculture
  • Maple Sugaring
  • Dairy Operations
  • Cranberries and Irrigated Specialty Crops
  • Fruit and Vegetable Storage and Refrigeration
  • Livestock and Poultry Housing
  • Facilities and Energy Systems (lighting, motors, heating)
  • Mobile and Field Equipment

How to Work With Us

Farmers and agricultural landowners across Massachusetts are welcome to reach out with questions, explore funding pathways, or schedule an energy audit.

Curious about funding? Learn about federal, state, and utility incentives that an energy audit can access: View Farm Energy Funding and Incentives →

Contact

Schedule your energy audit or discuss your operation's needs:

Griffin Pelaia
Agricultural and Energy Engineer
UMass Clean Energy Extension
(413) 421-0129 • gpelaia[at]umass[dot]edu (gpelaia[at]umass[dot]edu)

Services

  • Municipal Assistance
  • Agricultural and Energy Engineering Assistance
    • Farm Energy Incentives
  • Pollinator-Friendly Solar Certification
  • Business Technical Assistance
  • Institution and Non-Profit Technical Assistance

Center for Agriculture, Food, and the Environment

 

Stockbridge Hall,
80 Campus Center Way
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Amherst, MA 01003-9246
Phone: (413) 545-4800
Fax: (413) 545-6555
ag [at] cns [dot] umass [dot] edu (ag[at]cns[dot]umass[dot]edu)

 

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