The goal of this project was to examine means for the reduction of energy use or lowering energy costs in milking centers, and to propose measures that will include energy improvements based on electricity and fuel consumption with a possible addition of solar energy, and while meeting economical benefit criteria.
During the first year of the project, main missions were:
1. Conducting a comprehensive literature survey regarding similar systems around the world
2. Characterization of the milking center (cowshed and pen) in Ein Harod Ihud
3. Characterization of measurements and control tools required for research in the Ein Harod Ihud milking center
4. Equipment order
5. Equipment installation and testing
6. Primary data collection and calculations regarding electricity and fuel consumption in the milking center