Reducing dairy farm energy consumption and small scale on-farm energy production are the hot topics for discussion at two open events in Cornwall this month.

The events, being co-hosted by DairyCo and Dairy Collect, will take place on Wednesday 25 and Thursday 26 June.

The Farm Energy Centre will look at practical steps dairy farmers can take to help reduce energy usage, focusing on what, how and when. The most effective methods to cool milk and the savings associated with using these methods will also be explored.

Two dairy farm businesses that have benefited from Dairy Collect grants towards saving or producing energy from alternative sources will also be on hand to discuss their experiences. S & C Foote have installed solar panels to pre-heat water for hot washes in the parlour and dairy. A T Rapson & Son have installed a wind turbine and not only produce energy to power the milking plant but also sell some to the national grid.

The events are funded by Dairy Collect, the Objective One (European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund (EAGGF) and Defra) delegated grant scheme, which has supported over 220 Cornish dairy business with grants to improve the storage and collection of milk on farm.

Rachael Chamberlayne, Cornwall and west Devon extension officer for DairyCo, says: "With energy prices increasing it is essential that dairy farmers use energy as efficiently as possible and that they are fully aware of the different alternatives available for sourcing energy. This meeting will allow farmers in the region to explore both areas and talk to other producers that have invested in alternative technology to reduce energy costs."

The event on Wednesday 25 June will take place at the Royal Cornwall Showground between 11am and 2.30pm. The second meeting, on Thursday 26 June, will be held at Crossroads Lodge, Scorrier, near Redruth between 11am and 2.30pm. A light lunch will be provided on both days.