A new $5 million initiative has been launched in Victoria to help agricultural producers reduce energy costs and enhance productivity through the testing of emerging technologies. The On-Farm Energy and Electrification Demonstration program aims to provide practical data on how various energy solutions perform under real-world farming conditions before businesses commit to significant investments.
The program was officially opened at Agriculture Victoria’s Ellinbank SmartFarm, where applications are now being accepted. By facilitating trials of new equipment and systems, the initiative seeks to offer farmers concrete information regarding operational costs, efficiency gains, and potential productivity improvements. This approach is designed to assist agricultural operators in making informed decisions that could lower operating expenses and strengthen energy security.
Grants ranging from $200,000 to $750,000 will be available to support projects that demonstrate technologies capable of reducing diesel consumption, improving overall energy efficiency, or electrifying existing farm equipment. Additionally, the program supports initiatives focused on generating and storing renewable energy on-site.
Beyond individual business benefits, the trials are intended to help farming communities address broader challenges such as rising input costs, supply chain pressures, and climate-related emissions targets. By providing accessible data on technology performance, the program aims to accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices across the agricultural sector.
Eligible applicants for the grants include agriculture industry associations, farming systems groups, Landcare organizations, Traditional Owner and First Nations groups, Catchment Management Authorities, and companies offering energy solutions.
Applications for the program close at 5pm on Friday, 11 December 2026. Further details regarding eligibility and application procedures are available through Agriculture Victoria’s official website. www.agriculture.vic.gov.au/OFEED