Agriculture Energy Audit Program

The Agriculture Energy Audit program is an initiative by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), designed to help farms and agricultural producers across New York State identify opportunities for improving energy efficiency and reducing operating costs. As part of NYSERDA’s broader mission to advance innovative energy solutions, this program provides farms with comprehensive energy audits conducted in accordance with ANSI/ASABE S612 standards. These audits yield tailored recommendations based on each farm’s operational practices, infrastructure, and energy use, helping ensure long-term viability and profitability for participants in the state’s agricultural sector. NYSERDA, a public benefit corporation established in 1975, has long served as a key driver of energy research, innovation, and sustainability across New York. The Agriculture Energy Audit is a reflection of its commitment to supporting New York's farmers by identifying clean energy opportunities and creating pathways to energy independence and reduced environmental impact. Through this program, farmers can better understand their current energy consumption and receive a report that includes actionable recommendations to lower usage and costs, enabling reinvestment into their operations. Eligible applicants include farms and on-farm producers such as dairies, orchards, greenhouses, vegetable growers, vineyards, grain dryers, and poultry or egg farms. A fundamental eligibility requirement is that the applicant must be a customer of a New York State investor-owned electric utility and must contribute to the System Benefits Charge (SBC), which can be confirmed by reviewing a current utility bill. This condition ensures alignment with broader state energy initiatives funded through the SBC mechanism. To apply, farmers must download the Agriculture Energy Audit application form, complete it, and submit it via email to [email protected]. L&S Energy Services is the implementation contractor responsible for processing applications and conducting audits. For those already working with a consultant, that information should be included in the application; otherwise, one will be assigned. Applicants are also required to authorize NYSERDA to access energy usage data, which supports long-term measurement of program effectiveness and energy savings. The audit report will include specific recommendations for energy efficiency upgrades and clean energy investments. Following the audit, participants may be able to leverage additional state, federal, and utility incentive programs to implement those improvements. These opportunities are designed to support further investments in technologies that reduce emissions and increase energy resilience in agricultural operations. There is no stated deadline for this program, suggesting that applications may be accepted on a rolling basis. However, since the program is part of a structured initiative with periodic reviews and ongoing oversight, applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible. For questions or assistance, applicants can contact the program at 888-338-0089 or visit the NYSERDA website for more information. Applications may also be submitted by mail to L&S Energy Services, 58 Clifton Country Road, Suite 203, Clifton Park, NY 12065.