Ag. college on Offaly border to hold energy and farming diversification show

Launching the event, Minister McConalogue emphasised the importance of the Energy and Farm Diversification Show, stating, "We need to improve our energy security by reducing our dependence on imported fossil fuels. We want to see profitable, resilient and diversified farm businesses and management of energy costs, and investment in clean technology is a key part of this. Energy and Farm Business is an extremely valuable event in creating such awareness and comes at a key time for farmers looking to diversify their income with sustainable projects. The contacts and links made here will help you develop your business in the future."

On 18 July 2024, Gurteen Agricultural College will become the epicentre of cutting-edge solutions for landowners keen on sustainable practices. Dive into discussions on diversification into energy, leisure, tourism, food, and more, with a strong focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Explore innovative technologies and efficiency methods shaping the agricultural sector's climate resilience. Engage with leaders, test solutions, and attend seminars unveiling secrets to success in the eco-conscious era. This event is your gateway to a greener, more efficient farm future.

Professor Frank O'Mara, Director of Teagasc, highlighted the importance of the event, stating, "The Energy and Farm Diversification Show is a vital platform for showcasing how innovative agricultural practices can drive sustainability. Our goal is to equip farmers with the knowledge, information and tools needed to thrive in an eco-conscious era, while contributing to a greener planet."

Presented by a coalition of prominent organisations including Teagasc, Tipperary County Council, the Irish Farmers Association (IFA), Irish Farmers Journal, Technological University Shannon (TUS), Macra, and Gurteen Agricultural College, this event is poised to guide farmers towards a sustainable and prosperous future.

Francie Gorman, President of the Irish Farmers Association, emphasises the significance of the show, saying, "Farm-scale and community-based renewables must be the central part of future energy policy in Ireland, if the ambitions of Government’s Climate Action Plan are to be delivered. It is critically important that farmers can remain profitable and resilient through the decarbonisation transition by being supported to embrace these new business opportunities."

The Energy and Farm Diversification Show 2024 will feature a dynamic mix of panel discussions, outdoor demonstrations and an expansive exhibitor area. Key topics will include energy diversification, climate change, and biodiversity, highlighting agriculture's role in tackling these critical issues. Visitors can witness live outdoor demos, engage in insightful panel discussions, and explore the exhibitor area showcasing state-of-the-art technologies.

Jack Kennedy, Editor of the Irish Farmers Journal, remarked on the event's potential impact: "The Energy and Farm Diversification Show is set to inform the wider agricultural community of potential innovations that can help support farm families. It will provide a comprehensive look at how farmers can potentially diversify their operations and adopt sustainable practices that will not only benefit the environment, but also open up cost reduction and new revenue streams."

Entry to the event is free. See  https://energyandfarmdiversificationshow.com/  for more information. Join us at Gurteen Agricultural College on 18 July, 2024, to immerse yourself in the future of agriculture and discover how you can contribute to a more sustainable, efficient, and profitable farming industry.