| Volatile energy costs and environmental demands are prompting more producers to explore new energy sources.
Wind power, solar power and biodiesel. These are the big three energy alternatives that engineers at the AgTech Centre in Lethbridge believe will help power sustainable agriculture in the future.
"Sustainable, renewable energy sources are the trend of the future and agriculture is positioned to take advantage of them," says Rick Atkins, AgTech Centre Manager and Branch Head of Engineering for Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (AAFRD).
There are no silver bullets to eliminate fossil fuels, says Atkins. Yet many producers recognize the benefits of shifting to alternative energy for at least part of their energy needs. These benefits can include lower and more stable costs, less impact on the environment and greater energy efficiency.
"The recent trend of high fuel prices and uncertainty in the energy sectors has prompted more farmers to explore alternative energy sources," says Atkins. "Whether it’s to heat a hog barn or to light a shop, the key is to look for alternatives that are practical, reliable, cost-effective and environmentally sustainable."
Many options are emerging, but for now the top alternatives for farmers are energy from wind, sun, crops and other resources.
Rating the Alternatives
Rating system: 1 - 5 (1 less appropriate - 5 most appropriate)
 | Electricity | Heating | Transportation |
| Biodiesel | 3 | 3 | 5 |
| Anaerobic Digestion | 3 | 3 | 1 |
| Wind | 5 | 3 | 1 |
| Solar | 5 | 4 | 2 |
| Earth Energy | 1 | 5 | 1 |
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