Poultry sector pathway

The impact of poultry farms

• Poultry farming systems use a significant amount of energy to heat and cool sheds and for ventilation and lighting – so becoming more efficient is vital. Poultry growing includes broiler (meat) chickens; breeders, rearing and hatcheries; layer, colony and free-range egg production farms.   
• New Zealand has around 150 broiler growers, each with an average of 4 to 5 sheds. To maintain a healthy environment for growing chickens, sheds need to be well ventilated and remain at optimum temperatures of between 20° to 30°C, depending on chicken age. 
• The biggest opportunities for improving energy efficiency is good shed tightness and insulation, and use of variable speed fans, along with installing LED lighting in sheds. 
• Currently the industry uses gas and electricity as their main source of energy, but some farms are starting to install solar on shed roofs. Renewable solar energy presents a great opportunity for hatcheries and rearing given the energy requirements for heat and suitable ventilation.  
• This pathway focuses on managing fuel use and electricity loads for the poultry sector, improving energy efficiency and helping to reduce costs.

Tools and resources

These dedicated tools and resources have been designed by industry experts especially for the poultry sector. 

This pathway will identify, measure, optimise and reduce fuel and energy demand in your business. Work your way through them at your own pace, put the lessons into practice, and start seeing results. 

3 steps to reduce your carbon footprint

The Poultry Sector Pathway starts with energy efficiency. The end goal is to reduce carbon emissions and manage energy loads, but by first taking steps to improve existing processes, equipment and operations, your transition will be more efficient and more cost effective.