INDIA
Farmers in Chekurupadu have been able to drastically reduce their costs by switching to progressive energy-efficient barns.
With a view to cutting down costs, improving quality, and increasing energy efficiency, the country’s Tobacco Board has come up with subsidized schemes. Farmers save 25% on fuel during curing by using glass wool roof insulation and Venturi furnace insulation in their barns. The glass wool insulation costs Rs21,250 per barn, while the Venturi furnace insulation costs Rs20,000 each.
One Chekurupadu farmer said, “We are able to save Rs9,000 on firewood per barn after adoption of the energy conservation measures. We go for seven curings per barn in a season. Now, we are able to save up to three tons on firewood alone.”