THE JOURNAL FOR IRRIGATION PROFESSIONALS
Irrigation Australia International Conference and Exhibition 2016 – the biggest event yet!
ISSN 0818–9447 PP 100002571
NEW WAYS OF REPORTING WATER USE: A LOCAL GOVERNMENT EXPERIENCE TEN YEARS ON: LESSONS IN CPLM OPERATION POWER SAVINGS OF 25% FROM PUMP STATION REBUILD CONVERTING FROM DIESEL TO ELECTRIC: IS IT WORTH IT?
THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF IRRIGATION AUSTRALIA LIMITED
SPRING 2015 • VOLUME 31 NO 03
IN THIS ISSUE:
W W W. IR R IG AT I ON. OR G. AU
Energy and Irrigation Feature
CONTENTS FEATURES MOVING WATER FEATURE Water trading in the Murray-Darling Basin
14
Ten years on: lessons in CPLM operation
15
8
ENERGY EFFICIENCY FEATURE Measuring energy
16
AC solar pumping – breakthrough technology
18
Cheap clean energy loans for agribusiness and regional businesses 19 Power savings of 25% from pump station rebuild
20
FEATURE ARTICLES Get ready for Irrigation Australia’s 2016 conference and exhibition
28
Harvesting sustainability into the future
32
REGULAR ITEMS Chairman's Message
2
From the CEO
3
Irrigation Technology: Urban
4
Irrigation Technolology: Rural
8
Research
8
IAL News
22
The Big Issue
30
Professional Development
34
Bookshelf
35
State Roundup
36
Around Industry
37
Contractors Corner
38
Smart Watermark
39
Business Feature
40
ICID Insights
41
New Products & Services
42
20 42
ON THE FRONT COVER: Si Clean Energy electrician, Ben Bulanyi, installing AC Solar Pumping control and drive equipment for Australia’s first AC solar pumping system. The system is completely independent of the grid and is powered directly with solar panels while using a standard AC electric motor. In this photo Ben is hardwiring the 240 volt circuits and electronic control and data monitoring systems that are critical for the successful operation of any successful water pumping installation. Photo: Peter Bulanyi
36 SPRING 2015
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WELCOME
CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE WHAT’S HAPPENING ‘BEHIND THE SCENES’?
IAL OFFICE PO Box 863, Mascot NSW 1460 T (02) 8335 4000 F (02) 8335 4099 www.irrigation.org.au CEO: Duane Findley EDITORIAL Editor: ANNE CURREY ADVERTISING BCB Media Managing Director: Brian Rault T 0411 354 050 E brian.rault@bcbmedia.com.au
DESIGN & PRODUCTION Uber Creative Director: Annette Epifanidis T 0416 087 412 E annette@ubercreative.com.au
TERMS & CONDITIONS Advertising in this journal is managed by BCB Media on behalf of Irrigation Australia Limited. All contact with businesses and organisations about advertising is made by BCB Media staff, who must identify themselves and the fact that they work for BCB Media on behalf of the IAL. Advertising enquiries should be directed to BCB Media. No special consideration will be given to any advertisers as far as editorial content or front cover material is concerned. Decisions about editorial content and the front cover are the prerogative of the editor and the National Board of the IAL. Irrigation Australia Limited takes no responsibility for the technical accuracy of article content.
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Irrigation Australia has a key role in representing the interests of irrigation industry members in dealings with government. At times this work can be a long and drawn-out affair, conducted through interminable meetings in government offices, or via email over periods better measured in years than in months. On other occasions, representations can be made and results achieved in a surprisingly short period of time. It is generally the case that these representations are made with very little publicity surrounding them as, of course, is appropriate when dealing with politically and/or economically sensitive issues. Unfortunately, however, the end result is that IAL members may be completely unaware of this important work being undertaken on their behalf. Just one example of an area where IAL has recently provided representation on behalf of IAL membership is changes to water meter installation legislation in Queensland. Many of our members are aware of the fact that IAL has developed a Meter Installers and Validators Course, and that there are now more than 200 certified installers in Australia. Recent changes to Queensland Government legislation led to an uncertain situation, with the legislation potentially being read in such a way that only licensed plumbers would be able to install and maintain non-urban water meters. This decision had the potential to have a huge impact on IAL members in Queensland (many of whom had undertaken the Meter Installers and Validators Course) and did not make economic or practical sense to IAL. CEO Duane Findley acted promptly on behalf of IAL members, addressing the issue with Queensland Government representatives. After a relatively short period of time, IAL was pleased to announce that: A Queensland Government representative has confirmed in writing that the recent legislation does not apply to non-urban water meter installation and maintenance, but only to work regulated under the Plumbing Act. This is great news for the Queensland irrigation industry and for our irrigation professionals. The Queensland Government’s statement confirms the central place for appropriately qualified and
certified irrigation professionals in the installation and maintenance of non-urban water meters in Queensland. IAL has reinforced our commitment to work with the Queensland Government to ensure there are appropriate numbers of certified non-urban water meter installers across Queensland to undertake this important and technically demanding work. This is just one example of the work that IAL has been undertaking on behalf of its members to ensure that the interests of the irrigation industry are being represented and advocated for. We have been working hard behind the scenes to ensure that we have a strong voice in the corridors of power in Canberra and in the states. You can read about other issues where we are representing your interests in the IAL NEWS column. CONFERENCES PAST AND FUTURE
I was pleased to be able to catch up with a number of IAL members at the Irrigation Australia regional conference in Penrith in May. Those who attended were unanimous in their praise for the event. The papers were of a high standard, the networking events were well attended and companies who exhibited their products reported a steady stream of enquiries. Thanks should go to David McKechnie and the other members of the organising committee, as well as to Duane Findley and IAL staff members, for making it such a great event. Effort has now turned to our 2016 International conference and exhibition, being held from 24 to 26 May 2016 in Melbourne. Exhibition space is already 85% sold, the conference theme, Irrigation - for wellbeing and prosperity, has been selected, and a call for papers is now online at http://irrigationaustralia.com.au/ call-for-papers/ IAL will be starting event promotion in earnest in the near future. Make sure you mark your 2016 diary now.
Andrew Ogden IAL Chairman
FROM THE CEO 2016 CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION IN MELBOURNE – SAVE THE DATES!
Planning is well underway for Irrigation Australia International Conference and Exhibition 2016, being held at the Melbourne Convention Centre from 24 to 26 May 2016. This event is likely to be the largest IAL conference and exhibition yet. The conference organising committee is keen for IAL to strengthen its focus purely on the irrigation industry, where we hold a natural expertise. While there is a crowded conference market in water, it is important for our industry to remember that only the IAL conference offers the latest in thinking and practical applications across the entire irrigation industry. This is the conference and exhibition built by our industry, for our industry. The conference theme, Irrigation - for prosperity and wellbeing , reflects the central place that irrigation has in the future financial and social health of Australia. The organising committee is designing the conference so that there will be a dedicated conference stream each for the rural and urban irrigation sectors. This will ensure that the conference will offer a program to interest everyone in the industry. The call for papers for the conference has been announced and we are seeking presentations from industry. If you know of any interesting research or application of technology in the industry, or have any suggestions for seminars or workshops, please let us know and we will investigate. Exhibition space is rapidly selling out and sponsorship opportunities are being snapped up. If you are interested in exhibiting or being a sponsor, just let me know. COMMUNICATING WITH YOU
IAL has been working hard to build our social media presence. We now have an active feed on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter, and we place a number of Australian and international irrigation articles for information and comment onto these feeds every day.
When we first launched our social media platform, take-up was slow. Recently, however, IAL appears to have reached a critical mass and the numbers following our social media feeds are skyrocketing. We currently have around 2,000 Twitter followers, 900 LinkedIn contacts and 450 Facebook connections, from Australia and the world. This not only offers IAL members and your network a readily accessible source of information on our industry, but it is also a wonderful avenue to promote new professional or business initiatives. We are always looking for newsworthy items to add to our feeds, so if you have a new product, a new employee, or are doing something interesting in the industry, please send us the information so everyone can hear about it. Feel free to join with us on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter. If you need some help doing this and you don’t have a teenager in the house, give us a call and we will guide you through the simple set-up process. Our Backwash e-newsletter is being reinvigorated to make it much more relevant to our members. Have a look at the next one and let me know what you think. Again, we welcome news items from our members. Backwash has a circulation of several thousand email addresses, so items are going to a broad spectrum of our industry.
IAL TRAINING
IAL’s training courses have been proving more popular with the industry. IAL keeps course fees low for the benefit of the irrigation industry, and then offers large course fee discounts for IAL members, with standard training prices up to 50% more than the member price. By keeping our prices low and being so prominent in the industry, IAL acts as price beacon for other training providers in the industry, benefiting us all. In the interests of improving the professional standards of the industry, we also promote other course providers who offer training in the irrigation industry through our social media platforms. A recent trend is companies requesting tailored IAL training programs for their employees, both here and internationally. IAL’s training model, where we can draw on the best trainers in the industry for any particular topic, suits this approach well. IAL courses, dates and locations are all listed on the IAL website and we are always happy to discuss your particular needs. Duane Findley CEO
IAL Training Manager Vacancy IAL is calling for expressions of interest from suitably qualified individuals for the position of Training Manager, which will become vacant at the end of the year. If you are interested, IAL would like to hear from you. The position will be based in the IAL's Sydney office, and applications are welcome from part time and full time candidates. The successful candidate will need their adult education qualification (TAE) and be capable of running a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). For more information phone Duane Findley or Bill Yiasoumi on 02 8335 4000, or submit your resume to Duane Findley, at duane.findley@irrigation.org.au
SPRING 2015
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TECHNOLOGY: URBAN NEW WAY OF REPORTING WATER USE IMPROVES MANAGEMENT: A LOCAL GOVERNMENT EXPERIENCE The benefits of providing green assets within the urban landscape are well understood and can be quantified. On the flip side of this, councils are now finding ways of determining the costs of providing these assets and services to ensure best value. Being able to accurately assess irrigation maintenance, repairs, operation and the cost of water has become increasingly important as part of this process. The City of Greater Geelong has responded to this pressure to better assess costs of irrigation by developing a reporting process that: can show irrigation is being done efficiently, supports current financial expenditure, provides an assessment on the financial impact weather variation will have on water demand as part of annual budget preparations, and accurately assesses water requirements and costs for additional green assets. The reporting process, developed in 2013, is being used by the council to manage its 150+ ha of irrigated green assets consisting of sports grounds, parks, golf courses and botanic gardens ranging from local to national importance. Water demand to maintain these assets is forecast to increase due to climate change, along with an increase in water use due to new assets from urban development.
Paul Cotter (left), Senior Recreation Officer with City of Greater Geelong Council, and Richard Dilena review successful irrigation operations for 2014-15 using the new reporting format.
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New reporting process improves understanding and management of irrigation water The costs of water to maintain green assets is a large part of parks’ maintenance budgets. These costs can vary widely within a year and from year to year for various reasons, including increased maintenance requirements as a result of seasonal weather variations. While traditional financial reports such as year-to-date expenditure and total projected expenditure are readily understood, they fail to explain the reasons for water use variability, which can be difficult to convey to a wide audience. The reporting process developed by the City of Greater Geelong has required using a new system to continually measure, monitor and review water use. The benefits of doing this have been significant for things such as financial management, measuring and improving performance, asset management and developing maintenance systems. Financial management. Irrigation provides over 40% of the water requirement for the 150 ha of green assets currently irrigated, most of it occurring over a six-month period from November to April. To manage the budget better, expenditure has been phased according to estimated use across key irrigation months to provide a guide on the variability of monthly water use. Because the council relies heavily on irrigation, weather extremes within a season can have a significant financial impact, and now these can be monitored and reported on. Using advice from the Bureau of Meteorology, financial impacts from El Nino and climate change can also be estimated. Measuring and improving performance. Being able to show that irrigation is being done efficiently was highlighted as a key requirement for irrigation reports, especially during periods of high water demand and use. Water use data is obtained daily and the use of flow management capabilities in the irrigation software detects and limits losses from leaks. The daily data is entered into spreadsheets, which provide the reports. Using metrics to assess irrigation efficiency also allows water use to be compared across same and different asset types within a season, across seasons and with other organisations, enabling irrigation
practices to be refined. It also allows for detection of faults such as leaks, as well as for reduced efficiency from ageing irrigation infrastructure such as pumps, or reduced town water supplies which limits effective irrigation and increases water use that can occur over several seasons. Asset management. Standard categories have been allocated to green assets (Grade A to Grade D) and used to develop individual irrigation budgets and maintenance programs. Water use and maintenance activities are much higher for a Grade A sports ground compared to a Grade C sports ground. Water use is monitored and compared to projections and ground inspection data to ensure assets are maintained to the required standard. Importantly, categorising assets provides a framework for deciding which assets to keep irrigating during reduced water availability or financial capacity. Maintenance activities. Providing information on irrigation operations allows for in-depth assessment of poor asset performance that could initially be misinterpreted as insufficient irrigation volumes being applied. Issues that limit the effectiveness of irrigation or plant performance, such as compaction, disease, low nutrient levels or poor soil quality, can be identified and renovation and maintenance programs developed to improve or resolve them. Reporting based on irrigation benchmarks Two key references used to develop the reporting system are SA Water’s Code of Practice for Irrigated Public Open Space (IPOS), and water use efficiency for irrigated turf and landscape, developed by Geoff Connellan. Key outcomes as part of using these benchmarks and guidelines to best practice have been: • understanding the maintenance and water requirements of the different types of assets we have, i.e. active and passive, warm or cool season turf, trees, botanic garden, golf course • determining the required standards that assets are maintained to, e.g. AFL requirements, local sport ground, local park, heritage listed, reference plant collections and high profile
• understanding the condition and performance of irrigation systems, e.g. how much irrigation can be applied within allocated time, system efficiency, maintenance required, data loggers and flow sensors in place • Understanding the effects that weather has on the water demand for each of these assets in an average year and drought year. Spreadsheets were developed to calculate annual irrigation budgets for each asset using the above information, and to store, analyse, and create reports on water use and irrigation operations and performance. All irrigation systems were connected to central control systems to monitor and provide data of water use via the flow sensors in irrigation systems. Where flow sensors could not be used, data loggers were fitted to water meters and accessed via a web portal. Water use data is monitored daily and entered into a spreadsheet weekly. Daily weather data is sourced from three weather stations connected to the central control systems and entered into the spreadsheet on a weekly basis.
Current reports While a wide range of data and several reports on weather and water use are available in the reporting system, two primary reports are used to provide information - site reports and organisational reports. For these reports, water use data and analysis is represented in line graphs, and for the two key efficiency measures, Irrigation Index and Water Use Variation, fuel gauge type graphs have been used to convey results. Site report. A site report (see Figure 1) is used mainly by maintenance staff for specific site irrigation management. It is also provided to other council staff on request and several external customers whose assets council manages on their behalf (schools). Data is updated weekly. Key information provided is as follows: • Site data – name of the site, size, crop data, and the estimated irrigation system efficiency • Projected and actual water use • Irrigation Index • Water Use Variation • Application rate in mL/ha.
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Organisational report. An organisational report provides an analysis of all irrigated assets with the primary focus on financial status, irrigation efficiency and water use. The report is distributed monthly to council’s Water Sustainability Group, which includes members from finance, engineering, environment, asset management and maintenance departments. Data is updated weekly. Key information provided is as follows: • rainfall summary • YTD current, budgeted and projected potable water use • summary of potable water use • overall financial summary • averaged Irrigation Index of all sites • YTD overall Water Use Variation from all sources of water used for irrigation at all sites • notes including current and future issues that warrant special mention such as long-term forecast from BoM, and major irrigation infrastructure faults.
TECHNOLOGY: URBAN KEY MEASURES OF IRRIGATION EFFICIENCY To assess and determine the efficiency of irrigation, the two key measures used are: • Irrigation Index (Ii) • Water Use Variation. Ii is a measure used to indicate the difference between the volume of water being applied and that required to meet plant requirements. A value of <0.9 indicates an increasing irrigation deficit; between 0.9 and 1.1, optimum irrigation volumes are being applied; and >1.1 that too much water is being applied. Water Use Variation is used to indicate how much projected and actual water use varies as a result of drier or wetter seasons. It has been useful in providing a visual guide to the effects weather has on water use. A ± 20% buffer has been allowed to cater for minor seasonal weather variations. In seasons with above average rainfall it would be expected that with Ii within the optimum range water use would indicate ‘under projection’. For seasons with below average rainfall and Ii within the optimum range, water use would indicate ‘above projection’.
Better understanding of irrigation The current reporting process has achieved a number of key outcomes in the council, as follows: • understanding that irrigation is carried out efficiently despite seasonal variations • understanding of the volume of water required to maintain an asset to different standards • understanding of the effects of weather and irrigation system efficiency on water use • development and implementation of minimum design and installation standards for irrigation systems to ensure well managed and efficient irrigation systems 6
Figure 1. An example of a site report showing monthly water use, Irrigation Index and Water Use Variation.
Figure 2. An example of an organisational report distributed monthly to City of Greater Geelong’s Water Sustainability Group.
• design and installation guidelines for use by developers. Other positive outcomes have been the use of the processes developed to calculate irrigation volumes for the designing and assessing alternative water supply projects to determine their capability to meet irrigation demands, and a better degree of consultation between departments on new asset projects that require water. The future The City of Greater Geelong is committed to this reporting process and several improvements are currently being considered to further improve it.
The first is to refine the two key efficiency measures to reduce the 20% buffer allowed for in the Water Use Variation graph. We are also investigating how to better establish the value of providing green assets by developing metrics comparing water use with various user inputs such as visitation rates to a park or the number of user hours on a sports facility. Also being investigated is the feasibility of the reporting system being operated on the council’s intranet to allow wider access to data and reports across council, and potentially by the public. Richard Dilena, City of Greater Geelong
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TECHNOLOGY: RURAL MODERNISATION PROJECT PROMOTES INVESTMENT IN IRRIGATION UPGRADE This article details the results of a 2015 study by Victoria’s Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources analysing the impact on farm performance of the GWM Connections Project (formerly the Northern Victoria Irrigation Renewal Project, or NVIRP) and irrigation modernisation schemes in northern Victoria. The case study is a dairy farm in northern Victoria. GMW Connections Project The Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) irrigation district covers more than a million hectares of land in Victoria and includes more than 6500 water delivery channels that have been built since the late 1800s. Over time, how water is delivered, irrigation practices and technology have all changed hugely, and urban populations have grown. This has meant that modernisation of the complex water supply system started in the 19th Century to meet today’s very different needs became a priority. In 2007, the Victoria and Australian governments, as well as Melbourne Water, responded by investing $2 billion in the GWM Connections Project, which is scheduled for completion in 2018. At the centre of the project is automation of the major supply channels into GMW’s irrigation areas, called the “backbone”, to enable large volumes of water to be delivered more efficiently to its irrigation customers. The State and Australian governments’ portion of water savings made as a result of the modernisation will be shared with the environment, while those of Melbourne Water will go to benefit urban water users. Savings from improved delivery of supply water are being complemented by savings on farm through the on-farm irrigation efficiency programs administered through the Australian Government. Since 2009, landowners have invested about $250 million in on-farm irrigation infrastructure upgrades in northern Victoria, the incentives for which have been the GMW Connections Project and on-farm irrigation efficiency programs. About the case study farm The farm used in the analysis has about 600 milking cows, 580 ML of high reliability water and has access to 700 ML of groundwater. The project area covers 77 ha, 80% of which is perennial pasture and 20% annual pasture. 8
The original gravity irrigation system on the case study farm was converted to a pipe and riser system with one outlet.
The project area was gravity irrigated from a 3 km open channel with four outlets. The perennial pasture used 14 ML/ha and the annual pasture was not irrigated because it is on a higher ground. As a result of the irrigation system upgrade, the project area is now irrigated from a pipe and riser system with one outlet. The water is pumped from the sump through the pipe and riser system and distributed to the project area. Cost-benefit analysis The “without-the-project” scenario showed what the landowner would earn if the project was not implemented; the “with-the-project” scenario looked at earnings after changes were implemented. Partial farm budgeting was used to quantify the impacts of the changes. This analysis tool shows the net increase or decrease of income or costs resulting from the proposed changes, but not profit or loss for the whole farm business. The costs side is the sum of the extra costs incurred by the project and the revenue foregone. The benefits side is the sum of the costs saved and extra revenue generated. The difference between these two equations indicate if change is profitable where the benefits exceed the costs. It is not profitable where the benefits did not cover the costs. As the project involved a substantial investment, a discounted cash flow analysis was used to assess its financial viability. A sensitivity analysis was also done to determine the effect of a variation in the main benefit.
Annual cash flows for 20 years were converted to present values or the value of future cash flow expressed at today’s values. The discount rate used was 7% real, meaning inflation was not included in the analysis. The capital cost was about $600,000 with almost half spent on pipes, risers and pumping station; about 40% was on laser grading and construction of a 7 ML sump (see Table 1). TABLE 1. CAPITAL COSTS OF THE IRRIGATION SYSTEM UPGRADE ITEMS Automated pipe and riser system with pump station
COSTS $281,975
Power connection
$22,275
Laser grading and sump construction
$245,690
Fencing and other costs
$39,077
Total capital costs
$589,017
Other costs incurred during the decommissioning of the old system and construction of the new one were: decommissioning, $85,200; pasture related costs, $155,000; pasture establishment, $35,300; and production foregone, $119,700. Annual maintenance and pumping costs are $18,870. The value of the annual benefit was just over $100,000, of which 80% was production benefits. These annual savings were: extra pasture
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TECHNOLOGY: RURAL production, $83,500; water, $11,400; and savings on time ($4,500); vehicle travel ($760); channel maintenance ($1,600); and outlet tariff ($750). The total annual benefit was $102,510. In addition to the annual benefits, there were one-off benefits comprising water saved during construction, salvage value of the capital costs at the end of Year 20 and financial incentives from the Connections Project and on-farm irrigation efficiency program (see Table 2). The incentives are about 45% of the capital cost, decommissioning and pasture establishment costs and feed replacement. The landowner transferred half of the estimated water savings from the project to the Australian Government as environmental water. The landowner also assumes all the risks associated in moving water from the backbone to the project area. TABLE 2. VALUE OF ONE-OFF BENEFITS ITEMS
BENEFITS
Water saved during construction
$57,500
Salvage value (end of year 20)
$117,800
Incentives
$368,200
Payback in 15 years The results show that the project can generate positive cash flows after 20 years, even without incentives. For every dollar invested, the landowner receives $1.60. The investment can be re-couped after seven years with incentives, or 15 years without incentives (see Table 3). If the increase in pasture production is lower than estimated, the project is still financially viable with incentives, with a Net Present Value of $200,000. Importantly, however, if the landowner funded the project from borrowings or/and cash flows, the project is not financially attractive. The intangible benefits include convenience, flexibility and lifestyle benefits that can be provided by the new irrigation system.
PROJECT BENEFITS: A SNAPSHOT • The Connections Program provided a higher level of water delivery service to the farms which encouraged this landowner to invest in on-farm irrigation upgrades, i.e. a time-based automated pipe and riser system, which also offers intangible benefits such convenience, flexibility and an improved lifestyle. • The shorter ordering times enabled the landowner to drive higher pasture growth rates by better matching water applications to plant requirements. • The Connections Project and the on-farm irrigation efficiency program provided funds for landowners to implement irrigation upgrades more quickly than would have been possible if using their own cash flow, resulting in less time to breakeven. • Business risk is reduced as the farm is now producing more home grown feed and using water more efficiently. This has reduced feed costs and created a more robust farm business. The farm business is in a better position to pay more for water because of improved efficiency in converting water to pasture.
Other factors that could affect viability were as follows: • The tax on extra income generated by the project was not included in the analysis. There are potential tax implications resulting from government incentive payments and increase in income. • Potential loss of property value associated with a reduced ability to sell individual parcels of land with a separate water entitlement because there are fewer service points. The impact of this on the property price must be noted. Conversely, property values could increase as a result of the infrastructure upgrade. • The case study famer is responsible for all water losses while transporting water from the new meter outlet to the project area. Any losses due to evaporation, seepage and leakage were considered minor and hence not accounted for.
TABLE 3. FINANCIAL RESULTS, WITH AND WITHOUT INCENTIVES
10
WITH INCENTIVES
WITHOUT INCENTIVES
Net Present Value
$533,000
$189,000
Benefit: Cost Ratio
1.6:1
1.2:1
Internal Rate of Return
18.1%
9.8%
Break-even period
7 years
15 years
It should be noted that projections were based on data provided by farmers from their records and some were hard to accurately quantify. Detailed discussions with farmers and back-calculations which triangulated data from different sources were used to quantify these key parameters. The bottom line Given the assumptions used in the analysis, this project was financially viable and provided an attractive return on investment. As the main benefit was pasture production increase, less developed or less productive farms will have more to gain from the irrigation upgrade than highly productive farms, provided the operators have skills to capture potential improvements. This is because these farms can achieve higher level of water savings and production increases since they are starting from a lower base level. The landowner of the case study farm was able to double pasture production by improving irrigation and pasture management. This highlights the need for farmers to consider their circumstances and assess likely benefits before upgrading irrigation infrastructure. The Connections Project and on-farm irrigation efficiency programs have contributed to a major transformation of this farm business.
TABLE 4. BENEFITS OF UPGRADING IRRIGATION SYSTEM THROUGH THE PROJECT COMPARED WITH NO UPGRADE.
WITH PROJECT
WITHOUT PROJECT
BENEFIT
Pasture production (t DM/yr) • Annual pasture (t DM/ha/yr) • Perennial pasture (t DM/ha/yr)
814 5 12
399 2 6
415 3 6
Water use (ML/yr)
709
885
176
Time savings (hrs/yr)
180
Vehicle travel savings (km/yr)
1,080
Water saved during construction (ML)
885
Reclaimed land (not used for production)
About the authors Rabi Maskey is from Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources Tatura; Robert O’Connor, Olive Montecillo and Rebecca Pike are from Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources
0
Echuca; and Carl Walters from Goulburn-Broken Catchment Management Authority, Shepparton. Information Contact olive Montecillo, email olive.montecillo@ ecodev.vic.gov.au
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RESEARCH THE WATER AND ENERGY NEXUS: A MULTI-FACTOR PRODUCTIVITY CHALLENGE In July 2014 NSW Farmers published the results of a research study that explored the connection between water and energy productivity in irrigated agriculture and sampled views of stakeholders as to the challenges and priorities for action. The study methodology involved interviews of experts and practitioners across the irrigation sector coupled with a structured literature review to crossconfirm findings. The general conclusion confirms the view of many in the irrigation industry that there is significant potential to increase water and energy productivity in irrigated agriculture, especially through efficiency measures, the electrification of pumping and the adoption of solar power. Achieving this demands a coordinated RD&E program supported by alignment of water and energy policy at the highest level. Key findings Key findings of the research study are summarised below. The high and rising cost of energy is setting back water efficiency gains and is a barrier to achieving the objectives of the national water reform process. Over recent decades there have been major public and industry funded research, development and extension (RD&E) and capital investment in irrigation water use efficiency. Some of this investment and the resulting water savings may be lost as farmers move away from water efficient systems because of increasing energy costs. Water efficient irrigation systems are generally more energy intensive than water inefficient systems. The most potent water efficiency measures involve moving from open to closed, pressurised delivery systems, e.g. running bulk water in pipes rather than open channels, or installing drip or centre pivot systems to replace gravity fed, surface irrigation systems. The amount of irrigation water used by Australia's 41,000 irrigating agricultural businesses was 11.1 GL in 2012-13, up 32% on the previous year (ABS, 2014). That is about 11 billion tonnes of water being moved, some of it by gravity, but a large proportion being pumped, powered by diesel or grid supplied electricity. Improving energy efficiency in irrigation is a priority for both sustainability and productivity. Irrigation energy efficiency program needed. The study identified a pressing need to develop, communicate and implement energy efficiency solutions for mainstream irrigation technology and practice. There is also an urgent need for an RD&E program addressing the water/energy/yield connection in an integrated way. While farmers are generally aware of the increased energy consumption associated with water-efficient irrigation, they are largely unaware of how this increased energy consumption can be minimised and controlled. At an agency level, many government departments, and research and natural resource management organisations are active in promoting water efficient irrigation but these programs largely ignore energy efficiency. There is a significant lack of practical information regarding energy efficiency in irrigation and opportunities for renewable energy which is delaying innovation and is a drag on both water efficiency programs and farm productivity. Irrigation design and equipment specification were also identified as 12
Ensuring pumps are performing at maximum efficiency and are matched to irrigation requirements are important elements of managing energy consumption in any irrigation system.
important factors. Energy efficiency is rarely given priority in the design of water efficient irrigation systems, and farmers, irrigation engineers and sales representatives are missing opportunities to optimise energy use when specifying layouts and equipment. New irrigation systems are typically not optimised for both energy and water costs, with water costs and the protection of yield being the main considerations. Alarmingly, there are credible reports that farmers are being deliberately misled in some instances, e.g. to win tenders, certain irrigation system providers are specifying cheaper pipes that are too narrow without informing farmers of the increased friction and energy cost. Opportunities to save energy. Irrigation engineers and agronomists consulted in the study believed that an integrated, optimisation approach to energy, water and crop yield can enable significant net gains for most irrigation farms. In particular they said there are major opportunities for energy savings, including ‘quick wins’, on most irrigation farms through modification of practice and technology. Importantly for adoption, these changes can be achieved without affecting crop yield and often with increases in water efficiency.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR ENERGY SAVINGS INCLUDE: • improving equipment operation and maintenance • making minor adjustments to system components such as changing emitters and finessing pressures • redesigning and reengineering whole irrigation systems • redesigning production systems and using new plant production systems • introducing new and converging technologies, including sensors, smart systems and automation, improving technical support to the industry and adopting new energy generation close-to-use such as solar powered pumping systems.
Many respondents expressed interest in solar technology and, to lesser extent, other renewable solutions. The energy demand profile of farms is a critical factor when considering the suitability and return on investment for renewable energy in irrigation. The
demand profile must be considered over daily, seasonal, annual and longer climate-driven cycles, e.g. floods and droughts. The group with the most potential for renewable energy solutions are farmers with predictable and continuous irrigation energy demand, i.e. those on rivers, in irrigation districts and in horticulture. An opportunity may also exist for introducing renewable generation networks across irrigation regions, which generate electricity matched to the periods of peak irrigation demand in summer and autumn and deploy emerging energy storage technologies. Reforms to tariff structures and network charges would be critical to such developments. State water authorities and irrigation corporations should be engaged in discussion regarding whole-of-system energy savings and the potential role of renewables. Access to capital. Respondents and the literature identify access to capital as being a significant barrier to adoption. Investment in energy innovation technology typically has longer payback periods and an unfamiliar risk profile which makes it difficult for farmers to raise loans for such projects at viable interest rates. Bodies currently working in this space, such as the Clean Energy Finance Corporation, generally focus on much larger projects. A related issue is that improving energy efficiency may involve investing in an integrated suite of measures including both small and large capital items. In short, the proposition is likely to be more complex than, for example, raising capital for a new tractor. A new commercial finance product for farming SMEs, with government backing to extend loan terms, would remove a significant barrier to faster adoption of the solutions identified by the study. Incentives. Many respondents raised the potential for an energy savings certification scheme for irrigation. Savings achieved through such a scheme could be verified by registered irrigation engineers and designers in line with agreed metrics and standards.
As the cost of electricity increases, interest in renewable options such as solar generation is growing.
Given the bespoke nature of irrigations systems a project impact assessment approach is likely to be the most feasible model for certification. Information For information contact David Eyre, NSW Farmers P: 02 9478 1042 E: eyred@nswfarmers.org.au To download the report, The Water and Energy Nexus: a multi-factor productivity challenge, go to the NSW Farmers website, http://www. aginnovators.org.au/initiatives/energy You can download a series of factsheets produced through NSW Farmers Farm Energy Innovation Program at its Aginnovators website http://www. aginnovators.org.au/initiatives/energy
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MOVING WATER FEATURE Water trading in the Murray-Darling Basin Australia is a world-leader in the development and operation of water markets. Even with nearly three decades of water market operation in the Murray–Darling Basin (the Basin), there is still much to learn about its operation and potential. In this article David Galeano outlines current water trading rules and the MDBA’s role in water trading. A SHORT HISTORY OF WATER TRADE IN THE BASIN Water trading in the Basin began in the late 1980s. States implemented their own trading policies and rules and the demand for trade initially grew slowly over time. On the back of nationally agreed water reforms in 1994, the Murray–Darling Basin Commission (now the Murray–Darling Basin Authority), oversaw the implementation of a pilot interstate water trade project in the southern connected Basin. The pilot program, which ran from 1998-2006 along the Murray from Swan Hill to the Murray Mouth, allowed interstate trade of surface water. Its success led to the expansion, from 1 July 2006, of interstate trading for both temporary and permanent water rights. In recent years, trading activity has continued to expand, both within each state and across state borders. In 2012-13, 6,058 GL of temporary water was traded in the Basin and 1,044 GL of permanent water was traded. The total number of trades was approximately 30,000.
CURRENT WATER TRADING RULES The MDBA, working in consultation with irrigation infrastructure operators and Basin states, introduced new water trading rules on 1 July 2014. These rules form part of the Murray–Darling Basin Plan. The rules are designed to improve the water market by: • reducing restrictions on water trade • improving the transparency of water market information 14
• improving market confidence, through a stronger, more effective, water market. The water trading rules apply to the Basin's surface water and groundwater resources and to all tradable water rights within the Basin. These include water access rights such as entitlements (permanent rights) and allocations (temporary rights), irrigation rights and water delivery rights. The Basin Plan water trading rules operate alongside the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (see www.accc.gov.au) Water Market Rules and Water Charge Rules without overlapping. The water trading rules mostly apply to Basin states, but include several new obligations for irrigation infrastructure operators and individuals who trade water. Individuals should be aware of two key requirements: • it is now compulsory to report the price of your trade: this will help all users to better understand the value of their water • you must not trade if you are aware of details about a water announcement that is not yet public: this is similar to the insider trading provisions in the Corporations Act, and is legally binding.
WHAT IS THE ROLE OF THE MDBA? The MDBA has an ongoing role to support water trading in the Basin through: • regulating and enforcing the water trading rules • providing information to improve the operation of the water market • coordinating interstate water trading on behalf of South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales. Regulating and enforcing water trading rules. Under the Water Act, the MDBA is responsible for compliance with the Basin Plan water trading rules. We want to ensure water users have access to, and understand, their obligations under the Basin Plan. For information go to the MDBA website, or send an email to watermarkets@mdba.gov.au or phone on (02) 6270 0100. Providing information to improve the operation of the water market. There is a range of information on the MDBA website, including the Basin Plan water trading rules, technical guidelines and information on water market products available.
Water trading in the Murray-Darling Basin has continued to grow; in 2012-13, 6,058 GL of temporary water was traded and 1,044 GL of permanent water.
To download the information go to website www. mdba.gov.au/what-we-do/managing-rivers/water-trade. Our technical guidelines help individuals and organisations with their obligations under the Basin Plan water trading rules. They are very detailed as a result of the complex interaction of the rules with existing state based trade policies and operations. They were published following consultation between the MDBA, the Basin states, industry bodies, irrigation infrastructure operators, the Department of the Environment and the ACCC. We publish state-based trading rules and water trading rules within key irrigation infrastructure operator networks on our website in one central location. We also have information to compare 70 of the most commonly traded water products side by side. This brings information on the water market in the Basin together in the one place. Coordinating interstate water trading on behalf of South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales. Each state approves its own trades. The MDBA coordinates interstate trades by working with the states to ensure correct accounting and adjustments to state water registers.
INFORMATION David Galeano, General Manager, Social and Economic Policy Analysis, Murray–Darling Basin Authority p: 02 6279 0100 e: david.galeano@mdba.gov.au David Galeano, Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Canberra
Ten years on: lessons in CPLM operation In 2001, Joe Foley and Steve Raine from University of Southern Queensland’s National Centre for Engineering in Agriculture completed a review of centre pivot and lateral move irrigations systems used in the Australian cotton industry. The following decade saw many new systems commissioned so a follow-up review was done in 2011-12 by the Queensland Healthy Headwaters Project and NSW Department of Primary Industries. The aim of the review was to examine changes in design, operation and management of these systems. Fifty-eight cotton growers were surveyed: 27 were operating centre pivots; 23, lateral moves; and 8, both types of systems. CPLM systems are becoming more popular in the industry. Key lessons that were learned from the review that are important, especially for irrigators and service industries, are: • Make sure managed system capacity can meet the crop’s peak water requirement. Around half the survey participants would be unable to do this as managed system capacity was below 90% of peak crop water demand. • For optimum application uniformity irrigated areas should be levelled or be properly drained or both. Most irrigators in the review were installing CPLMs on country that has been levelled or had drainage works done. • System performance should be checked on commissioning and regularly afterwards. Despite this being recognised, only a small proportion of participants indicated that they did so. • Operating pressure is important. While most participants are concerned about running costs, about half were operating their systems above optimal pressure, potentially incurring higher running costs than necessary.
A review of CPLM systems in the cotton industry provides a number of valuable lessons for the irrigation industry.
NEW OPERATORS Participants in the 2011-12 review were asked what advice they would give to those considering installing a CPLM system. Their main points were: • it takes 2 to 3 years’ experience to adequately manage a CPLM system • talk to other operators before agreeing to a purchase • undertake training in CPLM systems • ensure your supplier is local, reputable, and able to provide service at critical times • ensure that the system capacity is adequate, i.e. equal to peak daily crop water use • ensure the entire system is properly designed • have a performance audit done before the final payment • obtain experience and training on management tools such as capacitance probes • experienced agronomists help a lot with crop management.
IN A NUTSHELL CPLM systems will help irrigators increase their returns per ML of water used and reduce their impact on the environment and natural resources as long as the systems are properly designed, capably managed and well maintained.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT This article is a summarised extract from a paper presented by Peter Smith and Suzanne Priest, NSW Department of Primary Industries, at the Irrigation Australia Regional Conference in May this year. You can download the full paper, Lessons for peri-urban centre pivot and lateral move installations: some findings from the Australia cotton industry, from the IAL website
ENERGY EFFICIENCY FEATURE Measuring energy With the growing focus on energy efficiency in irrigation, the number of tools for auditing and estimating energy use is growing. We describe three – an auditing app being developed by Tallemenco, a service offered by Grundfos called Energy Check and three tools developed by the National Centre for Engineering in Agriculture (NCEA) – EnergyCalc, the NGIA Renewable Energy Calculator and the Irrigator’s Energy Audit Tool. APP FOR ASSESSING ENERGY USE ON THE WAY Rob Welke, Tallemenco Pty Ltd IPEEAT is a mobile phone APP that assesses the energy efficiency of an irrigation pumping system. It’s been years in the making and, as author Rob Welke from Tallemenco explains, although it’s not available on the web yet, it’s on its way. So, just how did IPEEAT come about? The pumping energy efficiency of an irrigation system is made up of both pump efficiency and hydraulic efficiency, the combination of which indicates the overall pumping energy efficiency. A conclusion from years of experience doing audits is that the hydraulic inefficiency of most systems far exceeds the inefficiency of the pump. This means that just measuring the pump’s energy efficiency actually falls way short of capturing recoverable inefficiencies in an irrigation system. From my experience, most irrigation systems have high recoverable energy losses. As a result, over the last two years I have developed a software program which could predict the level of energy in-efficiency in an irrigation system. This was the birth of IPEEAT, Irrigation Pumping Energy Efficiency Assessment Tool. IPEEAT, which applies to electrically driven pumps only, was born out of a commercial need to develop a screening process where energy inefficient
Hydraulic inefficiencies can far outweigh pump inefficiencies. Measuring just pump efficiency does not reflect the system’s pumping energy efficiency.
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Case study A pumping energy efficiency site audit case study featured in the autumn 2015 Irrigation Australia journal (pp 16 – 17) shows how IPEEAT would evaluate the same system. The Greater Sydney Area Local Land Services contracted Tallemenco to conduct a detailed pumping energy efficiency audit on a well-managed turf farm in the Hawkesbury district in 2014. A new 203 m long lateral move (LM) irrigator had recently been installed and a belt-driven 45 kW electric pump took water from the Hawkesbury River and delivered it to the LM about 1 km away via a 150 mm PVC pipe plus 130 m of layflat hose. The audit measured pump efficiency plus friction losses across each major pipe and irrigation equipment sector. The following table summarises the findings in terms of $/ML attributed to deficiencies in the irrigation system and compares them with IPEEAT calculations. Table. Audit findings compared with IPEEAT calculations. Component
$/ML actual pumping cost
$/ML achievable pumping cost
Site audit calculations
91
45
IPEEAT
91
42.7
The large difference between the actual and achievable $/ML pumping costs was due to a massive build-up of iron hydroxide in the mainline, which had occurred progressively over the years and had not been noticed! IPEEAT could have predicted these savings with better than 10% accuracy and done so with only two hours of site work plus remote collection of flow and electricity costs from the grower, whereas the site audit took two days and cost $4,000 plus report. In addition, IPEEAT predicted that the potential annual savings were valued at $6,618 and the amortised savings over ten years would be more than $70,000. Now that’s incentive to look closer at an irrigation system with a full site audit! Pictured right: IPPEAT APP consists of a matrix of irrigation data inputs, which are then converted to achievable energy savings. It is able to flag energy inefficient irrigation systems for further site evaluation.
irrigation systems would be flagged with a minimum of effort. Using the tool will identify positive energy savings as potential annual dollar returns to the grower, which then justifies going in with a full site pumping energy audit to identify problem areas. How does IPEEAT work? IPEEAT divides irrigation systems into emitter classifications which each have their own unique hydraulic model, including CPLM, gun, knocker/rotor, dripper, surface, transfer and pipe and riser. It then accounts for other considerations such as if the pump is direct or belt driven, whether the pump is submersible or
surface type or whether there are other inclusions in the hydraulic model such as a layflat hose or filter. Site measurements, such as residual head at the emitter and the static lift from water source to emitter, complete the required hydraulic inputs. Annual pumped ML, electricity tariff and annual electricity kWh use complete the input data required. IPEEAT then compares the data entered to a similar irrigation system of the same emitter type, but built to best practice standards, such as optimal pipe sizing and pumps that operate at best efficiency point.
It then calculates the actual pumping cost in $/ML. More importantly, it calculates an achievable annual saving compared with an optimally built irrigation system of the same type. The software has been compared very successfully against results of site audits done by Tallemenco over the last decade. Field trials. The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Local Land Services are trialling IPEEAT software in an endeavour to break the nexus of “pump testing only” energy efficiency audits. The aim is to be able to offer its grower base a realistic pumping energy efficiency assessment service. IPEEAT will undergo more field trials before being released for sale to the public in the form of a mobile phone app, most likely towards the end of 2015. Information. Rob Welke, Tallemenco Pty Ltd P: 0414 492 256 E: rob@talle.biz
ENERGY CHECK According to Grundfos, if all the pumps around the world were replaced with modern, energy efficient ones, global electricity consumption would be reduced from 10% to 6%. Installation and operation are also important; two-thirds of all pumps installed today are inefficient and use up to 60% too much energy. Grundfos has recently introduced a service called Energy Check. The company offers a free service to estimate how much managers can save on their pumps. There are three steps in the service: 1. Onsite inspection. This involves a walkthrough of pump installations and a discussion of challenges. Information such as pump type, age flow, head and power use will be recorded. 2. Energy Check report. The findings are detailed in a report, which covers current pump installation and operation, potential upgrades, savings and payback time.
INFORMATION RESOURCES A search of the internet will show you that energy and irrigation is a growing area. Some of the resources we have used to put this feature together are: Factsheets about energy use and irrigation published by NSW Farmers Association through its Farm Energy Innovation Program. To download these go to website http://www. aginnovators.org.au/initiatives/energy Farm and Irrigation Energy Efficiency, Future Farming Fact Sheet published by NRM North www.farmpoint.tas.gov.au NCEA’s KMSI website, https://kmsi.usq.edu.au/ Energy Saving Tips for Irrigators published by the US National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service, website www.attra.ncat.org
ENERGY OPTIONS The most common energy sources for irrigation pumps are electricity through the grid and diesel. With both these sources representing a growing portion of the budget, operators and managers are looking for options that are not as costly. Possibilities that are emerging include: • solar/diesel hybrid irrigation pumps • gas injection in diesel pumps • the use of recycled materials for enhanced water storage/reduction of evaporation • sensor technology and digital control systems. Source: Saving Energy in Irrigation, published by NSW Farmers, www.nswfarmers.org.au
3. Realise savings. Ways of realising any savings in the report are identified. An important point for irrigators and people making decisions about buying irrigation pumps is that it can be false economy to buy simply on price. While this is the benchmark many people in the industry use, a much smarter approach is to consider whole-of-life costing. As the promotional material from Grundfos makes clear: “The purchase price is only 5% of the total life cycle costs of a pump…the operational costs account for 85%.” Information. For more information about Energy Check go to website www.grundfos.com.au Editor’s note. It is worth emphasising that a pump is part of an irrigation system. This means that achieving energy savings must take account of the system as a whole, including hydraulics and design. Having an energy efficient pump is, of course, important but if it isn’t matched to the system or if the system is otherwise inefficient, it will be impossible to optimise energy savings.
NCEA TOOLS EnergyCalc. EnergyCalc is a web-based software tool developed by NCEA to assess on-farm energy use, costs and greenhouse gas emissions associated with diesel, petrol, LPG and electricity consumption. Note that it is not limited to energy use associated with irrigation, rather it examines energy use across key processes in a production system and can be used to evaluate farming practices such as tillage, spraying and irrigation. The information generated by EnergyCalc is important for assessing total energy consumed on farm as well as detailed energy use for different farming practices, such as irrigation. The software also converts the energy used in a farming system to equivalent greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs). Total costs relating to energy consumption can also be determined and are based on updateable energy rates.
EnergyCalc is accessible to growers, industry service providers and researchers through a secure login page on the Knowledge Management System for Irrigation (KMSI). There are three main sections users need to go through in order to create a complete assessment, as follows: • Assessment details • Adding crop/product to assessment. Users can add a crop/product to the selected assessment as many times as they wish. • Calculation, practice and report sections. A report can be generated for one, a number or all crops after the assessment is completed. The generated report calculates the energy, greenhouse gas emissions and costs for particular practices entered into the calculator. An EnergyCalc report includes the following sections: • machinery inputs i.e. tractors, stationary motors, pumps and vehicles • summary of energy use • performance indicators • energy and cost savings. Note. EnergCalc Lite, which is an iPad app, is also available. NGIA Renewable Energy Calculator. This calculator was developed for the nursery industry. It is a user-friendly, web-based tool that nursery owners can use to assess solar and wind energy options. Users can determine the feasibility of replacing some or all of their energy requirements with a grid connected Small Generation Unit (SGU). Irrigation Performance Audit and Reporting Tool (IPART). Irrigators and irrigation managers can use IPART to evaluate and collate infield irrigation application system performance data. The online tool has a range of functions including standardisation of infield data record acquisition, calculation and presentation of infield irrigation performance evaluation indices, automated generation of grower recommendations and grower report generation. Information. To find out more about tools developed by NCEA go to their KMSI website, https://kmsi.usq.edu.au/
IRRIGATION TAKES A LOT OF ENERGY An audit of Tasmanian farms in 2009 found that irrigation accounted for between 70 and 80% of farm energy costs. Source. Farm and Irrigation Energy Efficiency, Future Farming Fact Sheet published by NRM North www.farmpoint.tas.gov.au
SPRING 2015
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ENERGY EFFICIENCY FEATURE AC solar pumping â&#x20AC;&#x201C; breakthrough technology From time to time a new technology becomes available that changes everything. In the 1880s alternating current (AC) electricity was introduced and it quickly superseded the inefficient direct current (DC) electricity systems in use at the time. AC power became one of the foundation technologies of the 20th century. In the 21st century, virtually all solar pumping until now has used specialised DC motors to rotate the pumps. As such, the size limitation of DC motors has so far limited the range of applications for solar pumping. Most solar pumping applications have been for residential purposes or stock troughs typically no more than around 3 kW in pump size.
SOLAR BREAKTHROUGH This situation is set to change with the development of AC solar pumping. This is a breakthrough technology that allows large sized standard AC pumps and off-the-shelf, three-phase AC electric pump motors to be driven directly from solar panels. Pump motor sizes up to 375 kW can be driven directly by this breakthrough technology. This allows for the application of solar panels into large pumping systems that until now has been impossible. AC solar pumping offers to significantly lower pumping costs, reduce reliance on the grid and limit the need for diesel pumping. Figure 1 shows the basic outline of an AC solar pumping system. It consists of: 1. Photovoltaic (PV) solar panel array 2. AC solar pump inverter drive 3. AC pump 4. Control system 5. Optional water flow and pressure monitoring system.
A 7.2 kW PV array driving a 5.5 kW AC pump at Bowraville, NSW: 60 m head, 80 mÂł per day.
There is nothing particularly different to DC system except that an AC pump and controller is used rather than a DC pump and controller. Nevertheless, it is the fact that AC power is now being used that opens the door to efficiency and scale. In this case the pump could be 5 kW, 50 kW, 100 kW, all the way up to 375 kW. A suitable PV array is then designed for the application, along with customised control and monitoring. As far as monitoring is concerned, it is possible to view actual performance on the go with a data logger and record the operation of the system to ensure all is well. Parameters such as water volume, pressure, tank level and temperature can all be observed or recorded for detailed analysis.
Figure 2. Performance of the system can be monitored with a data logger, which records parameters such as volume, pressure and temperature.
AC PUMPS USED WORLDWIDE
Figure 1. Main components of an AC solar pumping system.
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AC pumps are used for the vast majority of pumping worldwide and their economy of scale brings lower cost, longer service life and universal availability. In addition, the enormous global scale of the AC pump market drives their ongoing development
with continuous R &D and manufacturing investment which creates a constant improvement in performance efficiency and reliability. DC pumps (as used presently for solar pumping) tend to be far more specialised, limited in size to around 3 kW, sold in smaller volumes and less readily available off the shelf. With AC solar pumping it is now possible to directly connect solar panels to AC pumps up to 375 kW in size. For existing AC pumping systems connected to the grid or diesel generators, it is perfectly feasible to retrofit a solar panel array to the system and make significant running cost savings. For new installations in agriculture, local councils, industry or mining, AC solar pumping is rapidly becoming a sensible choice because of solar powerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s zero running cost. Independence from the grid is another significant advantage with AC solar pumping, in the event of bushfire or disaster disrupting the grid supply. Hybrid blends between the grid, diesel power and solar power also are available that can save considerable pumping operational costs. Typically such systems require software customisations according to the applications specific requirements. AC solar pumping systems whether new turnkey installations or retrofit to existing pumps are an exciting new development for every business that moves significant volumes of water. While ever the sun continues to shine, the energy it provides us whether for photosynthesis in plants or the electricity for pumping water, remains the ultimate source of energy and the closer you can get to it, the more efficient you become. Peter Bulyani, Si Clean Energy
Cheap clean energy loans for agribusiness and regional businesses Agribusiness and regional businesses are invited to tap into a new source of cheap loans to become more energy efficient. The loans are available through a $120 million fund that has been launched by the Clean Energy Finance Corporation and the National Australia Bank. Businesses can apply for loans through the National Australia Bank. Interest rates are 0.7 per cent lower than the bankâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s standard rate.
WHAT CAN BE FUNDED? Agribusinesses can apply for loans of up to $5 million to install solar panels, buy hybrid vehicles, upgrade refrigerators or install dual speed irrigation pumps. For irrigators installing variable speed drive pumps, the payback period is reported to be short. Oliver Yates, chief executive of the government-backed Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC), said the co-finance arrangement was the second of its type, after the Commonwealth Bank last year made $100 million available for energy efficiencies. "We've set up a facility with the National Australia Bank that enables them to offer clients a point-seven per cent discount on standard loans, if they're targeted towards investments that will make those companies more productive and reduce their carbon emissions," he said. According to the Clean Energy Finance Corporation, the fund is not a subsidy for NAB, rather the arrangement is they're facilitating the provision of finance through to their customers to become more productive. "NAB understands the climate challenges agribusiness face," stated Oliver. He added that the finance corporation already has a facility like this with the Commonwealth Bank, which is targeted at the manufacturing sector. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The NAB is focussing on their agricultural clients," said Oliver. The CEFC has assisted agriculture sector projects worth over $200 million to date, using $23.5 million in CEFC funds. It has another $1.32 billion in agriculture and related projects in the near future pipeline, seeking $345 million in CEFC investment. Agriculture accounts for nearly 4% of industry energy use in Australia, in lighting, appliances, fuel and heating/cooling, especially in industries such as dairy, horticulture, piggeries and poultry.
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ENERGY EFFICIENCY FEATURE Power savings of 25% from pump station rebuild Last year, Ballina Golf Club, in the NSW Northern Rivers, started looking at options for its ageing irrigation pumping plant. While the field irrigation was generally working well and had had a number of upgrades since it was installed in 1993, the pumping plant, which was the same age, hadn’t been touched, mostly due to the robustness of the original equipment choice. By 2014, however, the original variable frequency drive had reached the limit of its effective life and spare parts were no longer available. The pumps themselves were performing but showing signs of corrosion. The club knew a rebuild would be needed sooner rather than later and, given Murphy’s Law, the drive would probably fail in the middle of the summer irrigation season. To guide it in its decision making and to find the necessary finance to undertake any replacement works, the club’s Board needed a solid case. The club approached Edwards Irrigation Consulting (EIC) in July 2014 for independent advice and our preliminary studies indicated that completely replacing the 23-year-old plant – pumps, controls, filtration – would yield annual power savings of about 15%. The two Grundfos 22 kW pumps operating on one VFD pumped for 60 hours a week in summer, so these savings were considered to be reasonable and justified investing in an upgrade. It was this efficiency factor that allowed the board to proceed with the detail design consulting package.
To determine the system curve accurately, Tallemenco undertook a full flow and pressure audit through a full, normal, night irrigation cycle. Digital loggers were temporarily installed at strategic points and an ultrasonic flowmeter deployed to measure station flow, and the resulting data provided the actual system curve. It also allowed some field mainline problems to be identified. A common mistake in pumping plant design is to ignore both the VFD modulation and the additional flow and pressure required during the filter back-flush cycle. In most cases, the flushing load and VFD modulation are not considered, with the result that the pumping plant output is lower than the system curve when the filter flushes and modulation is at the bottom of the cycle. In brief, the pump curve should be calculated as: Pump curve = System curve + peak VFD modulation + filter flushing.
FILTRATION UPGRADE NEEDED Another necessary upgrade was the filtration system. The original installation was a suctionscanner type which is prone to blocking as a result of recycled water algal growth between the outside of the screen and the inside of the filter body where
TEAM EFFORT AND COMMUNICATION
MATCHING SYSTEM CURVE TO PUMP CURVE EIC, who partnered with Tallemenco Pty Ltd for the project, recommended that a rebuild would be far more effective if the actual irrigation demand, the system curve (flow and pressure), was matched by the pump curve. In our many years of irrigation consulting, we have rarely seen these two curves being accurately matched. We also advised that it would certainly not be wise to simply replace ‘like-with-like’, particularly since a number of field irrigation changes had been made since the original pumping plant was installed, and these changes may have increased demand. There was also the added issue of pipe-aging to consider. 20
the scanner can’t reach. A battery disk filter was preferred as all internal components are cleaned during the flushing cycle. However, the backflush flow rate on this filter type is much higher than a suction scanner, so pumps had to be selected to ensure they had the capacity to serve both irrigation plus backflush, as well as operate at best efficiency point (BEP) during normal irrigation. Another worthwhile addition to the station was a user-friendly magnetic flowmeter, installed on the suction pipe from the 100 kL tank and connected to the TORO SitePro irrigation central controls in the maintenance office. The resulting pump station design, using two VFDs (one per pump), more mechanically efficient pumps and more electrically efficient motors, returned an energy efficiency saving of 22%, much to everyone’s pleasure. Very significantly, the set point was able to be lowered by 5 m. Additional project considerations included the cramped existing pump station building, location and height restrictions for the existing overhead service gantry and the system downtime during rebuild. The club overcame the first issue by doubling the size of the structure. To resolve the other issues, EIC and Tallemenco worked closely with the superintendent (Wayne Tickle) and irrigation manager (Tony Anderson) to plan both the physical layout and the construction program.
A preliminary audit established that replacing the 23 yearold pumping plant at Ballina Golf Course would yield annual power savings of at least 15%.
Local firm Think Water Alstonville (Lee Rothwell) was contracted to install the new system. The company’s thoroughness in project management, WH&S, attention to detail and friendly attitude made the work appear easy. All the equipment was delivered directly to site or fabricated in Think Water Alstonville’s modern workshops. The old plant was removed and the new plant installed and operating within three days. While we often concentrate on the technical aspects of a project, a crucial element is communication, which can help determine the success or failure of a project. This project set a benchmark for team effort and communication, with everyone involved discussing it at every stage
Left:. Staff from Think Water Alstonville install the new pumping plant. Right. The new plant, fully installed and ready to be operated.
and minor improvements suggested and accepted with open minds. It has been the most satisfying project EIC has been involved in in 30 years, with Think Water setting a new standard as a contractor. At the end of the project, the club had the foresight to commission EIC to update their irrigation AsBuilt drawings. We engaged Murray Love Surveys and Lloyd Brown and Associates (surveying and CAD, respectively) to prepare accurate plans. Combined with the flow and pressure audit, these accurate drawings will allow the club and EIC to effectively review possible main line choke points, and to undertake meaningful irrigation, course and asset forwardplanning. The project was delivered on time and under budget.
from design through to installation. The communication afforded us not only allowed the club to foresee and address any minor issues but gave our organisation the confidence that our strategies were in fact correct and on target. The installation was seamless and, from a management perspective, could not have gone more smoothly. The fact that both Edwards Irrigation Consulting and Think Water Alstonville are local companies was an unexpected bonus. Mark Whiting, General Manager, Ballina Golf and Sports Club Limited
• Pumping plant: Grundfos Dual CRI 64-4-1 22 kW • Control panel: Grundfos Hydro MPC • Filtration: Arkal Spin-Klin 5-battery disk filter • Major components: Butt-weld HDPE/316 stainless steel/flow meter • Budget including professional fees (energy-efficiency research, pumping plant and filtration design, tender process and review, and contract administration): $138,000 excl. GST • Actual capital costs including professional fees: $116,000.00 excl. GST
WHAT THE CLIENT SAYS The Ballina Golf and Sports Club are delighted with the new pumping plant recently installed by Think Water of Alstonville. The installation of an energy-efficient state-of-the art irrigation system for our course will help us ensure we provide a superior golf course for years to come. The appointment of local consultant Chris Edwards of Edwards Irrigation Consulting has provided our organisation with expert advice every step of the way,
ESSENTIAL STATS
• Primary water source: Recycled water (Ballina Shire Council) • Secondary water source: Groundwater bore
Lee Rothwell (left) from Think Water Alstonville hands over the operation manual for the new pumping plant to Wayne Tickle, superintendent with Ballina Gold Club.
Chris Edwards, EIC, and Rob Welke, Tallemenco Pty Ltd
SPRING 2015
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IAL NEWS YOUR IAL BOARD MEMBERS Andrew Ogden (Chairman) Western Irrigation, Bibra Lake WA 6163 P: 08 9434 5678 M: 0411 750 770 E: andrew@westernirrigation.net.au Scott Barber State Water Corporation, Dubbo NSW 2830 P: 02 6841 2000 M: 0428 245 485 E: scott.barber@statewater.com.au Anne-Maree Boland RMCG, Camberwell Vic 3124 P: 03 9882 2670 M: 0427 679 042 E: anne-mareeb@rmcg.com.au Tim Doolan Ruralco Holdings Ltd, Girraween, NSW 2145 P: 02 9688 8502 M: 0418 969 591 E: tdoolan@ruralco.com.au Peter Durand Netafim, Laverton Vic 3028 P: 03 8331 6500 M: 0407 975 401 E: pdurand@netafim.com.au Geoff Harvey Davey Water Products, Scoresby Vic 3179 P: 03 9730 9101 M: 0418 888 876 E: gharvey@davey.com.au Peter Hayes Glen Osmond SA 5064 P: 08 8379 0115 M: 0418 842 700 E: grapwine@senet.com.au Les Olivieri HR Products, Canningvale WA 6155 P: 08 9455 1677 M: 0417 901 909 E: les.olivieri@hrproducts.com.au Peter Smith Department of Primary Industries NSW, Tamworth NSW 2340 P: 02 6763 1262 M: 0411 128 437 E: peter.smith@dpi.nsw.gov.au
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IAL WORKING BEHIND THE SCENES FOR MEMBERS In my Chairman’s message I referred to the fact that IAL is working hard behind the scenes to represent the interests of members across a number of different issues. The examples below will give you an idea of what we have been involved in, advocating for your interests and those of the irrigation industry. Australian Water Partnership (AWP). IAL has attended several forums providing input on behalf of members into this Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade initiative, developed to provide a coordinated response to growing water challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. The Government has initially committed $20M over four years to the AWP. Agriculture, fisheries and water together form one of six priority areas under Australia’s development policy (launched in June 2014) and will account for over a quarter of the total aid-for-trade expenditure by DFAT in 2014-15. The Strategy for Australia’s Aid Investments in Agriculture, Fisheries and Water (DFAT, February 2015) recognises that managing water resources efficiently and effectively is a major development challenge. Among other things, the AWP will support public and private partnerships in using Australia’s water sector experience in the Indo-Pacific region to help improve river basin planning to better manage supply and demand for water resources, contribute to strengthening regional institutional and organisational capacity to implement water sector reforms, promote water sensitive urban planning, reduce over-extraction of groundwater through improved groundwater management, increase water use efficiency in irrigation, and help protect ecosystems. Consultation Paper: Determining the Strategic Investment Priorities for the Australian Horticulture Industry. IAL provided a written submission in response to this consultation paper prepared by Horticulture Innovation Australia. While the overall submission from IAL addressed the various criteria listed for response, our key message was one of support for “water availability and management” in the final list of priority areas for HIA strategic investment. To quote from part of that response: Water and irrigation is a truly cross-industry issue. There is not a segment of the entire Australian horticulture industry that does not use water to grow their produce. Almost every HIA peak industry body (PIB) nominates water or irrigation as one of their strategic priority issues, yet water and irrigation is a “hidden” component in a
typical horticulture operation and tends to be forgotten by industry verticals when funding is allocated within that industry. Often, irrigation or water use efficiency advances in one horticulture sector have relevance in several other sectors, due to it being an input factor in every grower operation. All too often, when one sector conducts R&D in this area and makes advances, the cross-sectoral links are not developed enough to allow for cross-sectoral sharing of the advance. Funding research and development in water and irrigation as a truly cross-sectoral function allows the outcomes to be shared across the entire industry. The consultation paper sets out a compelling case for the need for industry-wide research and development in the area of water efficiency, with a predicted reduction of the availability of fresh water per capita to place everincreasing pressure on our primary producers to make efficiency gains in their operations. Water for Food Program, Western Australia. The Water for Food initiative is a four-year, $40 million state government program which will create the potential for new irrigation precincts and the expansion of agricultural and pastoral opportunities in existing districts across the state. The primary objective of Water for Food is to identify water and land resources, as well as irrigation technologies, that can enable Western Australia's fresh food and animal protein production to increase its contribution to regional economies by at least 50% by 2025 and twofold by 2050. The program extends from the Kimberley Region to the Great Southern and is at the core of Western Australia's strategic approach to increasing productivity in agriculture, while building export supply chains and encouraging capital investment in regional industries. The program will support public and private sector investment decisions for new, large-scale irrigated agriculture precincts and the expansion of existing areas by identifying where water is available, along with its quality and quantity. IAL represents its members through participation in key technical advisory and community reference groups associated with this program. Legislative changes to Water Meter Installation legislation, Queensland. Recent changes to Queensland Government legislation led to an uncertain situation with the legislation potentially being read in such a way that only licensed plumbers would be able to install and maintain non-urban water meters. This decision had the potential to affect
IAL members in Queensland (many of whom had undertaken the Meter Installers and Validators Course) and did not make economic or practical sense to IAL. CEO Duane Findley acted promptly on behalf of IAL members, addressing the issue with Queensland Government representatives. After a relatively short period of time, IAL was pleased to announce that A Queensland Government representative has confirmed in writing that the recent legislation does not apply to non-urban water meter installation and maintenance, but only to work regulated under the Plumbing Act. This is great news for the Queensland irrigation industry and for our irrigation professionals. The Queensland Government’s statement confirms the central place for appropriately qualified and certified irrigation professionals in the installation and maintenance of non-urban water meters in Queensland. IAL has reinforced our commitment to work with the Queensland Government to ensure there are appropriate numbers of certified non-urban water meter installers across Queensland, to undertake this important and technically demanding work.
Development of new Water Resource Management legislation, Western Australia. The use of both surface water and groundwater throughout Western Australia is governed under the 1914 Rights in Water and Irrigation Act. Even Western Australia recognises that times have changed since 1914, and that what was appropriate for management of water resources at that time may need updating to better suit current and future requirements. IAL is represented on the Water Resources Reform Reference Group – a group selected from a broad range of interested parties and responsible for working with Western Australia’s Department of Water to ensure the development of the new legislation delivers the best result for all in the future. These examples are just a few of the areas in which IAL is working behind the scenes on behalf of its members. For more information contact CEO Duane Findley or an IAL Board member. Andrew Ogden, Chairman
New members Welcome to these new IAL members Catherine Chapman, Aquawest Pty Ltd, Dubbo NSW Chris Joseph, Dalby Queensland Quate Lockett, Irrigation & Dairy Solutions, Forest Tasmania Luke McColl, Midwest Turf Supplies, Geraldton WA Graeme Miller, Triton Electrical Contractors, Joondalup WA David Norman, Water Dynamics, Perth WA Kyle North, Dowsing Concrete Pty Ltd, Kewdale WA Dion Roberts, Rivulis Irrigation, Brendale Queensland Lisa Tredrea, Retic Repairs Wembley WA David Thompson, Mt Torrens SA Eelko Van Der Vaart, One Stone Consulting Pty Ltd, East Perth WA
IAL NEWS UP CLOSE In this edition of Up Close we talk with Gary Horton from Triangle Waterquip in Melbourne. Gary has been a longtime member of the industry and of the association and is involved in next year’s Irrigation Australia International Conference and Exhibition as a member of the exhibition subcommittee. IA. What areas of the industry have you worked in and over what period? Gary. I have been involved in the industry for about 35 years always servicing it from a manufacturer’s point of view. I started with Humes Pipes marketing products such as polyethylene pipes and PVC pipe and fittings. My involvement was at first with agricultural projects and applications mainly for row crop and drip irrigation. However, in recent years, there has been a lot more involvement with centre pivots, golf courses and urban turf projects. IA. In the last couple of years what has been the biggest change in the industry from the point of view working of an equipment manufacturer? Gary. From a manufacturer’s perspective the major change in past 10 to 15 years has been to see growers gravitate to the latest developments in technology. With the cost of inputs continuing to increase growers are adopting greatly improved farm practices by installing automatic filtration
systems, fertigation equipment, hydraulic control valves and irrigation control systems to automate the entire property. As an example, I know of a major row-crop grower who manages all the irrigation for an 80 ha block from his smart phone and has no need to visit the block. IA. Do you see the irrigation industry changing significantly in the future or is it a case of “steady as she goes”? Gary. A big change that I see coming to the irrigation industry in the agricultural sector is that smaller growers will leave the industry because of the rising cost of inputs and the lack of distribution opportunities. This means the bigger growers will be getting bigger as they will have the economies of scale, more efficient irrigation systems and increased automation, all of which leads onto better productivity. I still see an opportunity for the smaller growers, however, it would be in areas of high value crops such as specialised bunch crops, miniature crops for the restaurant trade and other areas where they can specialise in high value products, including organic and hydroponic crops that are more labour intensive. IA. You are a member of the exhibition subcommittee for next year’s conference and exhibition. How are preparations going and how important is this event to the industry?
Gary. In May 2016 IAL will be holding their biennial conference and exhibition in Melbourne. As committee member involved with the conference and exhibition, this is certainly going to be an event of significant importance for the irrigation industry to showcase itself. To do this in 2016, the focus will be on promoting Australia as an international supplier of clean and green produce. The exhibition space is already 80% sold with a call for conference paper shortly to go out. We are fortunate that Melbourne is in the enviable position of having an intensive growing community for a wide range of crops in a 200 km radius and there will be a strong emphasis in targeting these grower groups.
Download an order form from the IAL website www.irrigation.org.au (go to the Bookshop tab under Publications) or contact IAL support office phone 02 8335 4000.
IRRIGATION AUDITING CATCH CANS AVAILABLE FROM IAL
Measure the application rate and uniformity of all types of pressurised irrigation – from handheld hoses to a centre pivot with the auditing catch can. Order your set now from IAL. Available in sets of ten. Price per set of ten catch cans is:
$70.00 (inc GST) for members $90.00 (inc GST) for non members plus postage
LAUNCH OF IAL RURAL IRRIGATION SYSTEM DESIGN STANDARDS AND CODES OF PRACTICE IAL has recently been fortunate to receive funding from the Queensland Government, through the Department of Natural Resources and Mines (DNRM), to produce a set of Rural Irrigation System Design Standards and Codes of Practice for Queensland's rural irrigation sector. The funding was generously made available through the Queensland Government's Rural Water Use Efficiency (RWUE) program. Having a common and agreed set of irrigation system design standards and codes of practice is essential for IAL and our industry to ensure consistency, to raise our industry's professionalism, and to enable certainty for our clients. The project involved identifying and collating existing standards and codes, then seeking contributions from industry stakeholders from Queensland and across Australia to develop a comprehensive set of documents for the industry. The project was started by IAL's Standards Special Interest Group, and completed by Gary Campbell, who had previously been a key contributor to the project.
The Rural Irrigation System Design Standards and Codes of Practice is now available for use by the irrigation industry. The document can be downloaded from the IAL website and IAL will be promoting the use of these standards and codes of practice over the coming months through a variety of channels. It is important to remember that Rural Irrigation System Design Standards and Codes of Practice is a living document. It's up to us all to use this document, test its contents, and suggest changes where needed. Importantly, although Rural Irrigation System Design Standards and Codes of Practice has been developed for the Queensland market, it has been created with input from irrigation experts across Australia. The publication has applications for the entire country and should be viewed and used with that in mind. I encourage you all, no matter where you operate, to test and use this document in your region and suggest changes to improve it. In time, with help and support from our industry, this document with appropriate regional variations should become a national standard for our industry.
SOCIAL MEDIA Have you checked out IALâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter pages? All are regularly updated with information about IAL activities and events such as the conference and training opportunities, as well as whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happening in the broader irrigation industry and current tenders. Members are also encouraged to post news. Just email your item to Jodie Porter at IAL, email jodie.porter@irrigation.org.au, and she will make sure it is included.
Duane Findley, IAL CEO
IAL NEWS REGIONAL CONFERENCE SETS HIGH STANDARD The effort the conference organising committee put into the program for the IAL 2015 regional conference held at the end of May in Penrith was certainly worth it according to participants, who rated it one of the best they had experienced. The range of technical papers and speakers were of an excellent quality, as was the venue at Penrith Panthers Leagues Club. IAL CEO Duane Findley said that while it was disappointing that delegate numbers were down on previous years, especially given the high quality program and speakers, those delegates who did make it to the conference were treated to an excellent event and were well pleased with the results. “A big thanks goes to the organising committee led by David McKechnie, the conference program created by Ian Atkinson and others, our conference organisers ICE, the Penrith Panthers convention centre and IAL’s friendly staff,” he said.
(l to R) Board member Scott Barber and Board Chairman Andrew Ogden discuss the successful conference with organising committee chairman David McKechnie (centre) and Sandy and Rob Welke.
Andrew Curtis, CEO of Irrigation New Zealand (left) discusses matters irrigation across “the Ditch” with Luke Jewell (centre) and Ed Joshua from NSW DPI. Board members Peter Smith (left) and Peter Hayes (centre) catch up with long time member Geoff Connellan before the conference dinner.
Exhibition a success The event was well supported by our exhibitors who reported solid interest in their products and services from delegates and exhibition visitors.
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Conference papers now on line Download conference papers from the IAL website http://irrigation.org.au/ publications-resources/2015-conference-papers
Membership InforMatIon MIssIon IAL will lead the development of a professional irrigation industry embracing best practice to underpin healthy, sustainable urban and rural communities and lifestyles.
VIsIon our MeMBers IAL’s extensive membership comes from the entire Irrigation Value Chain such as irrigators to water providers and water user groups, water supply authorities, consultants, designers, installers, contractors, manufacturers, suppliers, retailers, local, state and federal government departments and service industry companies.
“As the respected peak national organisation representing the Australian irrigation industry, Irrigation Australia will add value to members by: n Bringing
together, in fellowship and a united voice, all members of the irrigation industry;
n Actively
fostering a viable and sustainable irrigation industry to support community interests, needs and activities; and
n Being
the prime source and provider of irrigation related knowledge for Australian stakeholders”.
BenefIts - “It pays to belong” representatIon
n IAL is the national body that represents the irrigation industry n IAL is able to represent members’ interests, both collectively
and individually, where they are consistent with IAL policy, the Strategic Plan and Code of Conduct n Representation at Local, State and Federal level n Introductions and facilitation of business contacts and
opportunities both within Australia and overseas n Use of IAL Logo on company material n Individuals, end users, water user groups, water supply
authorities, consultants, designers, installers and contractors, manufacturers, suppliers, retailers, local, state and federal government departments and service industry companies with an interest in the irrigation industry are eligible to join
traInIng and certIfIcatIon
n Member rates for all certification programs including the
internationally recognised Certified Irrigation Designer program. n Member rates and preferential enrolment in IAL run or endorsed
training events and programs n Employees of member companies are entitled to member
rates for all services n Assistance with staff training and access to training incentives
at State and Federal level
trade opportunItIes
n Members (other than Category A members) receive a free listing
on IAL’s online Products and Services directory n Discounted advertising rates in Irrigation Australia n Preferential opportunity for feature articles and information
in Irrigation Australia and Backwash
n Discounted rates and preferential positioning for exhibition stands
at ‘Irrigation Australia’, the biennial exhibition of IAL and the largest irrigation related event in the southern hemisphere n Discounted rates at IAL’s Annual Conference n Early notification of industry event and government initiatives
access to InforMatIon
n As an IAL member you receive information, support and news,
can attend seminars and conferences at reduced rates and have access to our certification programs and other professional development opportunities n Free subscription to Irrigation Australia, the quarterly journal
of IAL and the most authoritative irrigation related journal in Australia (value $88) n Free subscription to Backwash, the monthly e-newsletter with
the latest in industry news and opportunities n Access to the network of industry contacts and information held
by IAL membership, the most comprehensive irrigation network in Australia n Access to overseas irrigation networks through ICID and
our affiliation with Irrigation Associations around the world
please visit www.irrigation.org.au or phone 02 8335 4000 for further information.
Irrigation Australia Ltd PO BOX 863, Mascot NSW 1460 Australia T. 02 8335 4000 Toll Free 1300 949 891 F. 02 8335 4099 E. info@irrigation.org.au
www.irrigation.org.au
CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION GET READY FOR IRRIGATION AUSTRALIA’S 2016 CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION IRRIGATION — FOR PROSPERITY AND WELLBEING Irrigation Australia International Conference and Exhibition is gearing up for 2016. IAL has developed this prestigious biennial event, being held from Tuesday 24 to Thursday 26 May at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, into the biggest irrigation get-together in the southern hemisphere. Don’t miss it - put the date in your diaries now.
“The IAL International Conference and Exhibition is the premier showcase event for the irrigation industry. The last Irrigation Australia Conference and Exhibition, held on the Gold Coast in 2014, attracted many new exhibitors, in addition to our long-standing exhibitor partners. It truly reflected the irrigation industry’s needs and there was a real ‘buzz' evident throughout the event — which many participants commented on. “The buzz and excitement are continuing for 2016 as exhibitors prepare to share their latest developments in knowledge and innovative products with visitors in an interactive environment,” said IAL CEO Duane Findley.
The Melbourne Convention Centre is the venue for Irrigation Australia Conference and Exhibition 2016
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The event is being organised by Exhibitions and Trade Fairs (ETF), a group that has been associated with it from its beginnings. Luke Kasprzak from ETF said several new features in 2016 will ensure the show continues to remain relevant to trade visitors and exhibitors, and to maximise their outcomes. “The IAL conference and exhibition will be the most complete package for the industry, allowing all exhibitors to acquire new business leads, network with hundreds of industry peers and ultimately generate revenue for their businesses,” he said. These will all add to an event that is a great opportunity for visitors to view the latest innovations, emerging technologies and products that are available in the irrigation industry.
New features include: • a VIP Buyer Program, ensuring the highest quality of visitors • more free networking functions for visitors and exhibitors to attend • an enhanced website featuring optimised search functionalities • an official mobile app.
Visitors will include irrigation water suppliers, manufacturers, retailers, distributors, resellers, contractors, all levels of government, installers, specifiers, designers and those interested in current and emerging irrigation solutions. Workshops and conference look to the future Workshops will be held each day in the exhibition area to showcase irrigation products and services. These will give visitors and conference delegates a great opportunity to have a hands-on look at equipment, and learn about industry services in an interactive environment. The exhibition will run in conjunction with the three-day Irrigation Australia International Conference. Luke said the conference was a great opportunity for delegates to get the latest information on where Australia’s irrigation industry is heading. “Delegates will also have plenty of opportunities to network with peers between sessions.”
Call for papers IAL has opened its call for papers for the conference. These can include case studies, research and results, ideally offering solutions to a problem. The conference audience will be diverse, covering every aspect of Australia’s irrigation industry. The conference organising committee is looking for concise, informative abstracts of papers that will appeal to the needs of this audience. For information and to submit papers go to the conference and exhibition website: http://irrigationaustralia.com.au/call-for-papers/. Exhibitors - don’t miss out! Luke said there was still some space left on the exhibition floor. “There are nine months to go, but we have only fifteen per cent of floor space remaining. I encourage all interested exhibitors to get in and book their stands now, before the early bird rates expire on 28 August. Don’t miss out!” he said. The exhibition is free to attend and includes some of Australia’s top suppliers. Make sure you’re one of them. Information Anne-Marie Mina, ETF Phone: 02 9556 7993 Email: ammina@etf.com.au
Pipeline and pumping solutions Contact Darling Irrigation for innovative solutions on design and construction of your pipeline, pumping and on farm projects. The Darling Irrigation Group outlet details: Darling Irrigation, Bourke NSW Darling Irrigation, Dubbo NSW Valley Tas, Launceston TAS Darling Irrigation, Narromine NSW Campaspe Irrigation, Rochester VIC Darling Irrigation, Wagga Wagga NSW
P: (02) 6872 2022 P: (02) 6883 3080 P: (03) 6391 8033 P: (02) 6889 1616 P: (03) 5484 1619 P: (02) 6931 8552
www.darlingirrigation.com.au SPRING 2015
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THE BIG ISSUE STRUCTURING FARM BUSINESS ENTITIES: SENATE INQUIRY AND WHITE PAPERS PROVIDE DIRECTION The Federal Government has released two White Papers, within a month of each other, with significant implications for the Australian agriculture, horticulture and irrigation sectors. The White Papers on the development of Northern Australia and agricultural competitiveness have several themes in common, including investment opportunities, developing and securing water resources, and improving infrastructure (both onfarm and transport related). They respond to significant challenges experienced by farmers throughout Australia, mainly the financial and physical consequences of drought, inefficiencies due to dated infrastructure and tensions surrounding land-use arrangements. Significantly, the agricultural competitiveness White Paper indicates funding of $13.8 million is to be invested in improving awareness of and increasing skills for such issues as developing co-operative and mutual enterprises (CMEs) and associated cooperative governance arrangements. Strengthening Australia’s capacity to continue expanding production of food and fibre commodities and developing regional communities through cooperative legal structures builds on these important, traditional alternatives to higher-profile private and listed company forms. White Paper on Developing Northern Australia The Developing Northern Australia White Paper (released 18 June 2015) focuses largely on opportunities to improve the agricultural sector in the northern parts of Australia. “The North” is defined as the northern halves of Western Australia and Queensland above the Tropic of Capricorn and all of the Northern Territory. This White Paper focuses largely on measures that will create opportunities and certainties for potential investors in the area. Improving roads (e.g. by sealing them) for transport, particularly cattle transport, and investing in infrastructure like dams are two areas central to developing the north that will have direct benefits locally, nationally and internationally, as the north continues to expand livestock and produce export. A significant area poised for reform is pastoral leases, with proposals to implement measures 30
that facilitate flexibility for land-use activities. This is particularly important given that a significant portion of the north is comprised of pastoral leases as opposed to freehold land. Pastoral leases generally have less security, which can have a direct impact on investment in infrastructure, and are generally granted for purposes of grazing, which limits additional land-use activities such as horticulture. Changes to these leases will see increased flexibility so that land can be used for activities including forestry and even tourism, as well as legislation to enable the transfer of permits for non-pastoral uses (currently, if granted, these do not transfer with the lease). The aim is that these measures will in turn facilitate investment and provide greater opportunities for the agriculture sector. White Paper on Agricultural Competitiveness This White Paper (released 4 July 2015) pushes for greater business understanding, drought and risk management approaches, linkages between sustainable farming practices and research and technology, and enhanced viability in agricultural markets. A particularly significant strategy is the $13.8 million to be invested into the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation. The purpose is to develop and train the agribusiness sector on areas including investment opportunities
and the establishment and benefits of establishing alternatives to “company” approaches to corporate governance. These alternatives include CMEs, which are traditional but often overlooked business structures, well-suited to irrigation and agriculture. Membership can comprise all of, or various components of, customers, employees, or producers operating in a similar field (for example, irrigation districts). A central element to these structures is that members benefit directly from the business and have immediate say in its direction, rather than being tied to investor capacity. CMEs have both similar and differing capacities and regulatory requirements to legal structures such as companies, partnerships or associations. Although regulated under State laws, CME rules link to national accounting standards and federal financial management and reporting laws. Directors’ duties are as stringent as they are for companies, but the added, unique features of cooperative business structures make them well-suited to the particular needs of farmers and local and regional communities. Farmers in similar, proximate locations, with similar input requirements and marketing processes will benefit economically from co-operative structures. These structures will reduce the overall cost of inputs, both through combined purchasing
power and a common approach to marketing, supply and distribution of produce. Closely related, mutuals are particularly beneficial for irrigation projects with long timeframes (spanning decades) given their flexibility as regards issues such as provision for asset management and renewal. Active membership rules assist in protecting CMEs from take-overs and asset-stripping. CMEs have recently become the focus of a Senate Inquiry into Cooperative, Mutual and MemberOwned Firms. The inquiry, by the Senate Standing Committees on Economics, has terms of reference to examine the role, importance and overall performance of CMEs in the Australian economy and their operations within the Australian economy. This is being examined with particular reference to the economic contribution of co-operative and mutuals; barriers to their innovation, growth and free competition; the impact of current regulations; and consideration of mutual ownership and privatisation of publicly held assets and services. Submissions to the Inquiry evidence several broad themes, including education, economic
benefits and regulation. The need for greater education about CMEs is a key focus and ties to the funding opportunities discussed in the agriculture White Paper. CMEs provide economic benefits to local producers and communities as the flow-on effects from employing local people, adopting longterm business strategies, and not being constrained by market pressures mean that benefits are contained to the advantage of members. A nationally-consistent legislative framework for regulation of co-operative structures does not yet exist, although its development is a key aspect of the Inquiry. The start of the Co-operatives National Law in all States is particularly relevant as it will remedy the existing discrepancy. Further, lack of legal definition for mutuals can create uncertainty for those considering this type of arrangement for asset management. Farm development, business education and viability are central messages in the agriculture White Paper, and the education of the agriculture sector as to CMEs is a crucial way in which these areas can converge and develop.
Future opportunities The White Papers make clear that investment, infrastructure and education are pivotal to developing Australia and ensuring the continued viability of the Australian agriculture sector. Combined with the Senate Inquiry into Cooperatives, the agriculture White Paper in particular highlights an important area for future development that will help build local and regional economies and communities through the legal structure of CMEs. The benefits of CME arrangements may be even more pertinent at a time when legal and financial structuring in resources industries is under increasing scrutiny with regards local social and environmental impacts and profit-shifting overseas. About the author Dr Madeleine Hartley is an expert in Australian and North American water resources law. You can contact her at madeleinehartley@kingfisherlaw.com.au Dr Madeleine Hartley, Kingfisher Law, North Sydney
ARTICLE HARVESTING SUSTAINABILITY INTO THE FUTURE The South Australian desert is not the usual location for growing horticulture. But global agriculture business Sundrop Farms saw the potential in the arid conditions of Port Augusta, located at the top of the Spencer Gulf, about 300 km from Adelaide. Port Augusta was the perfect location for the sustainable greenhouse horticulture producer. With the shortage of fresh water, degraded pasture land and harsh climates of Port Augusta, traditional horticulture was simply not practical for growing horticulture. Five years ago Sundrop Farms established its first greenhouse farm there. Today, Sundrop Farms is revolutionising horticulture, growing high value greenhouse crops year round in its seawater and solar fed greenhouse facility. It has been so successful it is expanding its facility by 20 ha, creating approximately 200 jobs, with an estimated further 100 construction jobs. The Government of South Australia’s Regional Development Fund committed $6 million to the expansion. “This project is about testing the limits of sustainable production technologies in arid climates using renewable resources,” Minister for Regional Development Geoff Brock said. The Government’s support will help Sundrop Farms to expand its early test facilities into a fully commercial operation. “It is a tremendous vote of confidence in regional South Australia that global company Sundrop Farms has based its cutting-edge operations here, exploring leading edge future-focused technologies for horticulture industries in arid climates,” said the minister. Late last year, a 10-year contract was announced for Coles to buy Sundrop Farms’ truss tomatoes and sell them across the country. This contract, together with SA Government funding and more than $150 million in debt and equity commitments (which included growth capital from global investment firm KKR), paved the way for the expansion. With SA being the driest state on the driest continent, the breakthrough technology adopted by Sundrop Farms is a flagship model for greenhouse horticulture in SA and worldwide. Its focus is on nature; harnessing the power of the sun to supply the solar power for energy, which produces fresh water for irrigation, electricity to power the greenhouses, and energy to heat and cool their crops. Mayor of Port Augusta Sam Johnson said the Sundrop Farms’ development is just what Port Augusta needed to boost its confidence and widen its economic base. “What is particularly impressive is that the development uses natural resources of sea water and sunlight to grow vegetables and generate power and thus reinforces our standing as an AridSmart city,” he said. The ever-growing market for sustainably grown produce is another win for the business, which aims to produce 15,000 t of premium tomatoes a year. There’s clearly a market for such a sustainable operation. The Port Augusta expansion is due to be completed by 2016 and it will see benefits through the community, the sector and the world. Sundrop has offices in 32
Europe and the Middle East as well as Australia, and will pursue a number of opportunities globally in the coming years, including potential further growth in Australia. Seawater the irrigation source While many horticulture growers extract groundwater, Sundrop Farms produce fresh water from seawater through desalination. The desalination process produces salt and nutrients, which can be used to fertilise the crops or sold to other agricultural producers. The Sundrop system relies on renewable inputs such as solar energy to produce freshwater for irrigation, electricity to power its greenhouse and the energy to heat and cool its crops. The ventilation system also uses seawater to clean and sterilise the air, making it possible to grow crops using natural pest management, i.e. beneficial insects. The figure shows how the Sundrop system works compared to a conventional energy system for a high-tech greenhouse. Note. Article provided by Primary Industries and Regions SA
Figure. While a typical greenhouse would use groundwater for irrigation, gas for heating and electricity for cooling, the Sundrop system relies on seawater and sunlight for its energy and water needs. Carbon dioxide (which can be sourced sustainably) and nutrients are used to encourage the best possible yield from its crops. Source: Sundrop Farms website www. sundropfarms.com
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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT QUEENSLAND MEMBERS – BECOME A CERTIFIED IRRIGATION AGRONOMIST Irrigation professionals in regional Queensland are being encouraged to become IAL certified irrigation agronomists through a generous subsidy provided by the Queensland Government. Strong interest has been shown in the initiative by advisors, consultants and sales staff who value the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and knowledge and upgrade their qualifications. Of the forty places available in the program, nearly a quarter have been taken up in North Queensland. As part of the initiative, irrigation consultant Pat Daley from South Queensland is providing training for over fifty people throughout the state.
The workshop starts with the electricity bill and works its way through the pricing and costs of different sources of energy as well as looking at the basic hydraulic principles which determine the efficiency of irrigation systems. Designed as an interactive session participants will complete some basic hydraulic calculations to determine energy loss in systems, use case studies to identify where they might find savings in their own systems and finally be shown a range of next steps to make the potential energy savings a reality. The workshop is aimed at operators and managers of irrigation systems who have a basic understanding of determining hydraulic parameters of irrigation system and would like to understand how to use this knowledge to save energy and money in managing their systems.
CID EXAM SCHEDULE 2015 CID exams are held in capital cities around Australia and in other locations, by arrangement. Mark your diaries now for 2015. 19 August 27 October 2015
Information To find out more or register your interest for courses, contact Jodie Porter, email jodie.porter@ irrigation.org.au, phone 02 8335 4000 or go to the Upcoming Courses & Workshops page IAL website www.irrigation.org.au.
COURSE CALENDAR Date
Course
Location
25 and 26 August
Irrigation Pumps
Italian Club, Werribee, Victoria
The subsidy provides a discounted fee for assessment of skills and knowledge and entry to the Certified Irrigation Agronomist Program. While the focus is on agronomist, all IAL certification programs are eligible. Contact Deb Atkins, email training@irrigation. org.au for information.
26 August
Waterwise Irrigation Expo
Bendigo Bank Stadium, Mandurah WA
TBA
Irrigation Hydraulics
Bunbury WA
8 and 9 September
Irrigation Pumps
Glenelg SA
8 and 9 September
Irrigation Performance Evaluation Course
Glen Iris Victoria
22 September
Filtration
Melbourne Victoria
ENERGY – KNOW THE BASICS
23 and 24 September
Meter Validation and Installation course, 2 day/2 unit
Wodonga Victoria
25 September
Meter Validation 1-day refresher
Wodonga Victoria
September TBA
Energy Efficiency – the Basics
Sydney, Adelaide, Melbourne
September TBA
Greywater
South Perth WA
12 and 13 October
Introduction to Irrigation in Australia
Canberra ACT
13 and 14 October
Meter Validation and Installation, 2 day/2 unit
Warwick Queensland
15 October
Meter Validation 1-day refresher
Warwick Queensland
22 and 23 October
Introduction to Urban Irrigation
Ryde TAFE NSW
TBA
Irrigation Pumps
Bunbury
Beginning in September, IAL will be offering a new training experience to the industry. In response to the growing impact of rising energy costs on irrigation, IAL and CapeAbility Consultants have developed a one-day workshop to help managers of irrigation systems to look for ways to save energy while maintaining water use efficiency. While there are a number of energy workshops currently being offered to the industry, this workshop is different in that it takes irrigators through the energy basics. 34
BOOKSHELF This quick guide to the National Water Account 2014 can be downloaded from the Bureau of Meteorology website.
NATIONAL WATER ACCOUNT 2014 The Bureau of Meteorology recently released the annual National Water Account for 2014. The account provides a picture of water resources management for the previous financial year for nine nationally significant water use regions, i.e. Adelaide, Canberra, Daly, Melbourne, Murray–Darling Basin, Ord, Perth, South East Queensland and Sydney. These regions account for more than 70% of Australia’s population and more than two-thirds of Australia’s total annual water consumption. The account informs policy, planning and decision-making by governments and industry by providing detailed insight into the management of Australia’s water resources at a national and regional level. It pulls together the best available data, standardises this information to ensure that it is nationally consistent and highlights data gaps.
NEW
Key national findings • Continued dry conditions across much of Australia through 2013–14 contributed to a second consecutive year of reduced inflows to storages and increased demand on the available resources in many regions. • Surface water storage volumes decreased during the year, from about 30,968,800 ML (or 75% capacity) at 1 July 2013, to about 29,922,900 ML (or 72% of capacity) at 30 June 2014. • Water use was about 13,283,000 ML across the nine regions, a 21% decrease on use in 2012–13. • Surface water, including inter-region transfers, accounted for 84% of water used, while groundwater accounted for almost 15%. Other sources, including desalinated water, contributed just over 1% of the volume of water used. • The Murray–Darling Basin accounted for 80% of water used in National Water Account regions, mainly for irrigated agriculture, which is the major use of water in Australia.
• Water security in urban areas has been improved through investment in desalination plants. Coastal urban regions can produce desalinated water to meet a portion of current urban demand. In 2013–14, Adelaide and Perth relied on desalinated water for almost 40% of urban supply, an increase of more than 30% from 2012–13. In comparison, good surface water availability in Melbourne, South East Queensland and Sydney meant little or no desalinated water was produced in these regions. Download the account To download the account go to website www. bom.gov.au/water/nwa. The 2014 National Water Account is the fifth account in the series. The website also houses a range of supporting material, including: general information about the National Water Account; a quick guide which shows users how to navigate around the website; and the National Water Account 2014 video, which describes the account and its importance, and summarises key findings from a national perspective.
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STATE ROUNDUP CLIMATE RESILIENT DESALINATION AND RECYCLED WATER SOURCES DATA The Bureau of Meteorology has launched a Climate Resilient Water Sources web portal, an interactive site providing comprehensive mapping and information of desalinated and recycled water sources for over 350 sites across Australia, both publically and privately owned and operated. Users can access the portal (www.bom.gov.au/ water/crews), to search information on capacity, production, location and use of these alternative water sources in your area. This information will inform the Australian community, government and the water industry of the contribution that these sources make to secure water supplies for current and future residential, industrial, mining, commercial and agricultural needs. Climate Resilient Water Sources is jointly developed by the Bureau of Meteorology, the Australian Water Recycling Centre of Excellence, the National Centre for Excellence in Desalination and CSIRO.
TABLE. STORAGE CAPACITY BY STATE (2014 COMPARED WITH 2015). States
Latest observation
Previous year
Capacity (ML)
Volume (ML)
% Full
Date Reported
Capacity (ML)
Volume (ML)
% Full
Western Australia
11,473,736
9,857,942
85.9
30 June 2015
11,473,736
10,859,483
94.6
Victoria
12,863,979
7,237,279
56.3
1 July 2015
12,863,979
9,265,134
72.0
Tasmania
22,141,361
10,295,645
46.5
30 Jun 2015
22,141,361
9,802,575
44.3
South Australia
2,257,300
2,051,568
90.9
01 Jul 2015
2,257,300
2,114,547
93.7
Queensland
10,429,274
8,262,811
79.2
01 Jul 2015
10,429,274
8,604,510
82.5
Northern Territory
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
285,450
261,700
91.7
New South Wales
21,352,134
9,515,608
44.6
01 Jul 2015
21,352,134
10,514,873
49.2
Australian Capital Territory
158,430
101,666
64.2
30 Jun 2015
158,430
94,478
59.
NATIONAL WATER STORAGES FALLS
TASMANIA ENCOURAGES INVESTING IN IRRIGATION
A check on the Bureau of Meteorology website (www.bom.gov.au) shows that water storage around Australia has fallen compared in the last 12 months from 63.6% to 58.8%. The table shows storage capacity on a state-by-state basis.
The Tasmanian Government has developed a range of tools and information to help farmers and potential investors develop their irrigation businesses. The information aims to help reduce the potential production, financial and environmental risks from irrigation development. The ultimate aim is to support the growth of high-value crops and enterprises that are well-suited to a particular irrigation district. As examples, new mapping technology is helping to classify land according to its suitability for various agricultural enterprises. This is complemented by gross margin and financial analysis tools, the latest market information, market research, irrigation technology and farm management information and irrigation fact sheets. Irrigators can also access information through the recently announced Water for Profit program, which is aimed at ensuring Tasmanian farmers are equipped with the right skills and information to increase profits and sustainability from their investment in irrigation. The four-year program (2015–19) consists of four projects: • farmer groups for peer-to-peer learning networks • irrigation and cropping decision support tools • soil management practices under irrigation • soil mapping information to assist with land-use planning and investment decision making For information about the irrigation development portal go to website www.dpipwe.tas. gov.au/agriculture/investing-in-irrigation For information about Water for Profit go to website www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au/about-thedepartment/water-for-profit
DAMS FEATURE IN AGRICULTURE WHITE PAPER
WA DIGITISES WATER INFORMATION
The Australian Government’s Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper, released in July, includes hundreds of millions of dollars set aside for new dams and other water infrastructure. The funds will be managed through a new $500 million National Water Infrastructure Development Fund. Fifty million dollars of this budget will be used to identify and plan for viable projects for investment, while $450 million will be spent on water infrastructure in partnership with states and territories. The Government says $200 million of this latter amount has already been announced in the recent white paper on developing Northern Australia. Opportunities for development identified by Minister for Agriculture Barnaby Joyce include managed aquifer recharge in the Northern Territory and Gippsland's Macalister Irrigation District Southern Pipeline in Victoria as well as new dams in the Nathan and Emu swamps, Rookwood and Eden Bann weirs in Queensland, Dungowan Dam in New South Wales and the Ord Stage 3 in Western Australia and the Northern Territory. Shadow Opposition Agriculture Minister Joel Fitzgibbon criticised the white paper for an absence of a vision and plan for agriculture and making no mention of the impacts of climate change.
A key component of Western Australia’s Water for Food program converting a wide range of hard copy hydrogeological information into a digital format. This is a large task, with the Department of Water estimating there are up to 10,000 hard copy hydrogeological reports containing water data to be electronically captured. These reports span from the 1950s to the present and contain information on around 100 000 bores across the state. When the task is finished, the digital data will be made available online to private sector investors and growers, which will reduce the need for expensive water investigations in areas where comprehensive data already exists. This hard copy information is currently not available to the private sector or to other agencies. The project team has assessed more than 800 reports in the Kimberley and Midlands regions. There were 3,316 bores located during the assessment process - 1,465 existing sites and 1,851 new ones. The information will also be used to support the design and alignment of road, rail and pipeline infrastructure where applicable. To find out more go to website www.water.wa.gov. au and search on Water Information Conversion project.
36
AROUND INDUSTRY NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR FOR GMW
“Since we established our operations in South Australia in 1929, Philmac has built a manufacturing success story based on innovation. We are now ready to begin the next chapter of our growth by embarking on the single In June Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) Chair Sarah Scales announced that biggest capital investment in our operations in decades,” said Mark. John Calleja had been appointed managing director of Goulburn-Murray Water. Funds to help boost production capacity and expand Philmac’s high She said that the GMW board had conducted an extensive national search for value product range were received from the Australian Government’s $50 a new managing director, and considered a strong field of candidates. million Manufacturing Transition Programme, which provides grants to help As part of the process the board considered the critical role GMW has in manufacturing businesses become more competitive and sustainable. regional communities across Northern Victoria, the strong foundations currently Philmac’s $9.6 million co-investment project will involve the purchase established within the business, and the need to continue to deliver on its and upgrade of tooling and injection moulding equipment, increased strategic directions. assembly capacity as well as new infrastructure works on site. “John’s experience, knowledge of the water sector and his strong leadership As a result, Philmac expects to create 30 new positions in SA, where it demonstrated that he is best placed to lead GMW into the future. currently employs more than 200 staff. “As chief financial officer for the past four Mark said that Philmac’s sustainable growth strategy is built around years, he has an intimate knowledge of the product development and re-engineering existing products to meet business, and is best positioned to continue changing market needs across Australia and overseas. This investment will to lead GMW’s journey as a truly customer allow the company to expand its plumbing, mining and large scale irrigation focussed and highly commercial water infrastructure markets in Australia and key export destinations. corporation,” she explained. As proof of the success of this strategy, in April Philmac announced it had been Critical to GWM’s future direction will awarded its biggest single contract with France to supply pipe fittings for water be delivering the final stages of its $2 billion infrastructure in Paris and beyond. The three year agreement – signed through its Connections Project, which is modernising French trading partner with global water, waste and energy company Veolia – is the irrigation infrastructure in the Goulburn expected to generate sales of approximately 250,000 units a year. Murray Irrigation District, and overseeing the integration of this project into GMW’s operations.
PHILMAC INVESTS $9.6 MILLION IN SA Philmac’s manufacturing facilities in South Australia recently received a $9.6 million investment injection to create local jobs and boost exports. The manufacturer has committed to invest $7.2 million in its North Plympton plant with a further $2.4 million to be provided by the Federal Government through its Manufacturing Transition Programme. Philmac Managing Director Mark Nykiel said the investment was a vote of confidence in the future of its SA manufacturing operations.
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valleyirrigation.com Philmac’s Managing Director Mark Nykiel announced that the company would be investing $9.6 million in upgrading its manufacturing operations in SA. SPRING 2015
37
CONTRACTORS CORNER CONVERTING FROM DIESEL TO ELECTRIC: IS IT WORTH IT? Many contractors and service people are asked whether it is worthwhile converting from a diesel to an electric pump. While each case is individual, in general, provided there is easy access to the electricity network, converting from diesel-driven to electric pumps will improve pumping efficiency and reduce costs. Typical efficiencies for electrical centrifugal pumps range between 70 and 80%, whereas diesel pumps have an efficiency of from 30 to 40%. Other advantages of electric pumps include lower maintenance requirements, less environmental impact and more easily implemented pump controls (such as variable speed drives).
Diesel irrigation pumps are common in Australian agriculture as typically they are required in remote areas where access to electricity networks is limited. However, the running cost of diesel pumps is high compared to the cost of electric pumps, at between $400 and $500 per MWh generated (2014 prices). Diesel pumps also have higher maintenance requirements than electrical pumps. When connection to grid electricity is economically feasible (no major line extensions are required), replacing a diesel pump with an electric one can reduce operating costs significantly, based on average electricity prices of between $150 and $250/MWh. Other advantages of electrical pumps include: lower labour and maintenance requirements; ease of integration with digital control systems; and reduced environmental impact, such as emitting less noise. Efficiency explained The specific fuel consumption of a diesel engine is about 0.25 L/kWh for most large engines (over 70 kW) and around 0.3 L/kWh for smaller ones. This is equivalent to a generation efficiency of approximately 30 to 40%. Assuming a diesel price of $1.50/L, the running cost of diesel pump can therefore vary between 250 L/MWh x $1.50/L = $375/MWh and 300 L/ MWh x $1.50/L = $495/MWh. If you consider that average electricity prices (2014) are typically between $150 and $250/MWh, this represents more than double the running cost of an electric pump. A key factor behind the high running cost of a diesel pump is its low overall efficiency (see table). TABLE. THE RANGE OF EFFICIENCIES FOR DIESEL AND ELECTRICAL PUMPS. Pump type and efficiency
Low
High
Pump hydraulic efficiency
60%
90%
Overall diesel pump efficiency
18%
36%
Overall electric pump efficiency
48%
86%
Key factors when evaluating quotes Irrigators are being advise that the running cost of a pump is a key factor to consider in evaluating the benefits in converting. The price of diesel versus electricity and the operating hours of the pump will determine energy savings. For example, high electricity costs (e.g. >$200/MWh) and short running times will provide relatively low savings, especially if the irrigator can buy diesel at low cost. 38
In general, if there is easy access to an electricity network, converting from a diesel-driven to an electric pump will improve pumping efficiency and reduce costs.
The cost of a power-line extension is also an important consideration as generally this is expensive. The typical cost for systems up to 90 kW (HV line) can range between $15,000 and $20,000/km. If the distance between the pump and the electrical supply point is more than a kilometre, it will probably affect the viability of the project. Diesel versus electric pumps When comparing options, it is recommended that you consider the following information: • duty point for the application: average and maximum flow rate (L/s) and head (m), i.e. the height difference between suction and discharge points, pipe length and pipe diameter • pump efficiency (hydraulic and motor) at duty point • control option (manual versus automatic) • power supply (single or three-phase) • water quality: define the materials/coatings that will protect the pump against erosion and corrosion. Calculate the life-cycle costs of different options and compare these against one other and against the existing diesel pump running costs to determine the anticipated savings. Information NSW Farmers Association has published a series of factsheets about energy use and irrigation through its Farm Energy Innovation Program. To download these go to website http://www.aginnovators.org.au/initiatives/energy
Acknowledgment. Thanks to NSW Farmers Association for permission to reprint this information sheet, Diesel versus electric pumps, as an article.
2014
Product of the Year FINALIST
SMART WATERMARK
SMART WATERMARK IN EUROPE WILL BOOST OPPORTUNITIES FOR MARK HOLDERS Smart WaterMark is joining forces with the international water efficiency organisation Waterwise (www.waterwise.org) to expand the water efficiency innovation and certification program into the European market. This partnership will see the Waterwise Recommended checkmark amalgamated into Smart Approved Watermark. The partnership is to be launched in November 2015. As a result of the partnership, Australian mark holders will be able to use their Australian certification to get certification for the European market. Existing mark holders will be able to promote the water saving capacity of their products and services in the European market for a small additional license fee. Jeremy Cape, Chair of the Expert Panel, expects that many of the major irrigation companies that hold the Mark for their products will welcome the news. “It means that companies already selling products in Europe will be able to obtain European Waterwise certification without doing any additional testing. The fact that their products are certified in Australia will mean that they will automatically certified in Europe.” he said.
(l to r) Jacob Tompkins, Managing Director Waterwise and Julian Gray, CEO Smart WaterMark sign the partnership agreement. This agreement means that companies already selling products in Europe will be able to obtain European Waterwise certification without doing any additional testing.
ABOUT SAWM To find out more contact the Smart WaterMark team on (02) 9223 3322 or info@smartwatermark.info
SAVEWATER! Smart WaterMark has worked closely with Savewater! To promote water efficiency and water efficient products over the past nine years. The Savewater! Board recently made the decision to wind up the not-for-profit organisation. To ensure that all the great Savewater! knowledge and education materials are not lost, Smart WaterMark has taken ownership of the remaining assets. This includes the website, education games, tools and materials, interactive house and garden, greysmart water planner, product library and the online plant sector. These are very useful resources and will help ensure that Smart WaterMark is the go-to destination for information about water efficiency and water efficient products.
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Do you have an irrigation product or service that uses water efficiently? The closing date for submissions for Smart WaterMark certification by the independent Technical Expert Panel is September 26. Guidelines for irrigation products including: controllers, sensors, sprinklers and sprayers, drip emitters and trigger nozzles have been developed with the irrigation industry and are free to download. For more information, including application forms and guidelines, visit www.smartwatermark.info or call (02) 9223 3322.
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SPRING 2015
39
BUSINESS FEATURE LOCK THE DOOR TO IDENTITY THIEVES The ATO recently reminded taxpayers that protecting your personal identity online is as important as locking your front door each day. Online fraudsters become more ambitious around tax time in their efforts to dupe individuals and businesses of their personal information so it is crucial that you make sure your online security is up to the job of protecting you.
• securing your business files and employee information when they are not in use • regularly changing all passwords • ensuring that you and all your staff log out of systems and lock computers when they are not in use • making sure that your computers and other devices have up-to-date security and anti-virus software. How to lock the door to identity Protect your AUSkey. Just as with your house thieves keys or car keys, you don’t want your AUSkey in the Identity thieves often target businesses to steal wrong hands. Your AUSkey acts as a second layer of information to commit tax fraud and other crimes. protection on top of your username and password to This may include lodging false GST claims, obtaining ensure that only people you have given authorisation loans in the business’s name or buying goods under to can access your accounts through our online the business’s name. systems. To protect your business information from identity Here are some tips to help you protect your thieves: business and AUSkey against identity theft: 1. Know what to protect • Keep your AUSkey password secure; don’t share 2. Secure your business premises AUSkey access, each person should have their own 3. Secure your systems access tailored to their role. 4. Protect your AUSkey • If you need to use your AUSkey across multiple 5. Ensure you have internal controls devices, consider storing your AUSkey on a secure Know what to protect. Make sure that you USB with a password. protect business information, which includes your: • Regularly review who is authorised to hold active • AUSkey AUSkeys and remove AUSkey access when people • business activity statement no longer need it, e.g. when they have left the • employee’s personal information, such as TFN, business or when they no longer require access to banking details, name, address, date of birth and certain systems. superfund details • Regularly review who is using your AUSkey or • other forms and business records that contain AUSkeys through AUSkey Manager (online) and personal or business information, for example, what they’re accessing with it for any suspicious supplier’s details, invoices and client information. activity through Access Manager (online). Secure your business premises. Is the security • Control the number of systems and activities that of your business premises up to scratch? It only takes a standard AUSkey can perform through Access a few moments for thieves to photograph or steal Manager. information at your place of work so make sure you • Ensure that only relevant people have Administrator keep documents containing personal details safe and AUSkey access as it allows them unrestricted access secure. Follow these simple tips to keep your business, to: ATO online services, other government agency customers’ and employees’ information safe: services and report directly to us through SBR• install appropriate physical barriers such as locked enabled software. doors and windows Ensure you have internal controls. There • ensure you have appropriate alarm systems in place are situations where employees from both small and • file documents with personal and business large businesses have used their role and access to gain information in lockable storage units. information about the company or other co-workers. Secure your systems. Securing your business If your employee does this, it will affect you: systems against hackers and identity thieves is just as • If an existing or previous employee has committed important as securing your home or business premises the crime under your AUSkey, when the fraud is against thieves. To protect you and your business from uncovered, the ATO will be required to investigate identity thieves the ATO recommends: and audit your business. 40
DON’T OPEN YOUR DOOR TO IDENTITY THEFT Identity thieves can take your details by: • breaking into your business and stealing your records • taking a photo of your business or employee details • stealing your passwords, account logins and AUSkey. Once they have this valuable information they can use your stolen identity to: • create fake businesses and commit refund fraud in your name • take over your business and submit adjustments for BAS that you have previously lodged • takeover existing AUSkeys or create new AUSkeys in your name and commit fraudulent activities • sell your identity to national or international organised crime groups.
• By receiving refunds that they are not entitled to, the thief is taking vital revenue away from the community. In other cases, employees have used their position to obtain their co-workers’ personal information to sell to organised crime groups. These crime groups go on to create fake businesses using these stolen identities to submit fake BAS and obtain fraudulent refunds. Protect your business and employees from these types of crimes by: • conducting a background check on new employees • ensuring that employees’ actions can be tracked when they are dealing with sensitive and personal information • limiting employees’ access to our online systems by changing your AUSkey settings and access through Access Manager or cancel a user’s AUSkey through AUSkey Manager. If you suspect that your TFN or ABN has been stolen, misused or compromised, contact the ATO as soon as possible on 1800 467 033 between 8.00am and 6.00pm, Monday to Friday so they can investigate and place additional protective measures on your account. Information For more information go to the ATO website https:// www.ato.gov.au/Business/
ICID INSIGHTS IAL SCHOLARSHIP GOES TO KATHLEEN HEUVEL IAL announced in July that it had awarded an ICID young professionals scholarship to Kathleen Heuvel to attend ICID's 26th European Regional Conference (ERC) and 66th International Executive Council (IEC) meetings from 11-16 October 2015 at Montpellier, France. There was an overwhelming response to nominations for this scholarship and the applicants were scrutinised by an international evaluation team on a series of criteria related to industry knowledge and participation. “This is a highly-sought and competitive scholarship open to IAL members active in the irrigation industry, and was awarded to Kathleen on the basis of her work in our industry and with her work with the local IAL regional committee. “IAL's continuing membership of ICID allows these scholarships to be made available, to recognise our best and brightest young professionals in our industry,” said IAL CEO Duane Findley. Kathleen said the fact there was an overwhelming response made receiving the award it even more exciting. “I've got some homework for the conference as each country will be contributing towards a comparative study on irrigation standards. The IAL standards document, which is almost finished, will make a great reference document,” she said. On behalf of IAL and our industry, congratulations Kathleen, and we all look forward to hearing about your experience at this global conference.
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY DATE
PLACE
DETAILS
11 – 16 October 2015
Montpellier France
66th IEC Meeting, October 2015, Montpellier, France. Contact Secrétaire Général, Association Française pour l'Etude des Irrigations et du Drainage (AFEID) Montpellier France, phone +334 6704 6316, email: afeid@cemagref.fr, website http:// afeid.montpellier.cemagref.fr
2016
Chiang Mai, Thailand
67th IEC Meeting, 2016, Chiang Mai, Thailand. Contact is Secretary General, Thai National Committee on Irrigation and Drainage (THAICID), Deputy Director General of Royal Irrigation Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Bangkok, Thailand, phone +662 243 6963, email thaicid123@gmail.com, website http://www.rid.go.th/Thaicid
8 – 14 October 2017
Mexico City, Mexico
23rd International Congress on Irrigation and Drainage on the theme: Modernizing Irrigation and Drainage for a new Green Revolution. Contact is Contact: Dr Luis Rendón Pimentel, President, Mexican National Committee of International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (MXCID), phone +52 53 222407, +52 53 222400 Ext. 6672, email : cnm@mxcid.org
IEC – International Executive Council, annual ICID meeting ICID – International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage, New Delhi India
WINNOW™ SILVERLINE SERIES FILTERS • For use in Irrigation systems, Dairy, Food-Processing and other Industrial Applications. • Market Leading Range of Automatic Cleaning Technologies – including Vacuum, Brush, and Hydro-Jet. • Hydraulic Turbine Compatible Filters Available – No Electricity Required. • Epoxy Coated Steel, 304 Stainless Steel, 316 Stainless Steel, Duplex, and Titanium models available.
WINNOW™ PLASLINE SERIES FILTERS – WITH HYDRO-SPIN • Patented Inlet Design creates a rapid circular motion of water – causing a hydro-cyclone affect and turbulent cross-flow current over the filter surface. Kathleen Heuvel, just awarded an ICID young professionals scholarship, will be attending ICID's 26th European Regional Conference (ERC) and 66th International Executive Council (IEC) meetings in October.
Information For information about ICID go to the ICID website www.icid.org. For information about IAL involvement contact Stephen Mills phone 0407 318753 or email stjmills@gmail.com
• Substantially Increased Filter Service Intervals. • Superior Flow Consistency. • Flush-Valve for Fast and Efficient Filter Element Maintenance. FOR FREE BROCHURES, ADVICE, OR NEAREST DEALER PLEASE CALL: 1300 134 812 EMAIL: solutions@winnowgroup.com WEB: winnowgroup.com
SPRING 2015
41
NEW PRODUCTS MAIT LIGHTNING STRIKE STIMULATES CONTROL CHANGES
Len Russell has been the viticulturist at Watershed Wines, located at Margaret River in Western Australia, since the vineyard was first established in 2001. When their automated irrigation system was hit by lightning during 2013, Len took the opportunity to put in a radio option with no wires that may be susceptible to a similar event. “I calculated that the cost of rewiring the control system would be more than the telemetry involved”, explained Len, “and anyway I wanted to avoid a similar lightning problem in the future.” After reviewing the options Len chose Mait Industries to install an efficient, easy-to-use, radio-based system. Mait Industries, based in Melbourne, provides innovative monitoring and irrigation control solutions. With extensive agronomic and engineering expertise, the practical and technical issues of farming are at the forefront of the design of their systems. The work was undertaken at the 80 ha, ‘stage one’ Watershed vineyard which has 18 irrigation valves over the area. The focal point of the control system is Mait’s iBase Radio which communicates with a solar-powered iControl 12-Radio unit which, in its basic configuration can control four valves. A number of iControl 12 Radio Single units, looking after one valve each were also installed. “It only took a day and a half to get up and running and we’ve been happy from day one!” said Len. “It is very simple to use once the parameters are fed into the computer and we have remote access through SMS and Team Viewer, so we don’t actually need to be at the computer. It includes a pump control system that automatically turns the pump on it the pressure drops. “As well we installed the Mait iFERTIGATION facility which we use twice in spring and post-vintage. We also use it for our acid and chloride treatments.”
Len said they are looking to network the system in the future, right across their vineyards and they will definitely look at Mait Industries for that when the time comes. For more information about Mait Industries irrigation control systems phone 1300 739 9820 or email sales@mait.com.au
DAVEY WHEN YOU WANT SOMETHING “OUT OF THE BOX”
Davey continue to expand their creative approach to the needs of the Australian market with their ongoing application of flexible standardisation. Davey’s recently released on-pump, variable-speed drive, Monsoon Compact systems have progressed quickly from single-pump systems to multi-pump models using the same basic building blocks. The ability to take a range of existing models or components and combine them into a new system best suited to end user needs has allowed Davey and their dealers to continue to grow as a quality, solutions based supplier. With assembly facilities in Davey’s Scoresby head office as well as a newly established facility in Davey’s extensive Brisbane office, the Davey Water Solutions division is constantly growing and expanding. Davey have always been renowned for the extensive range of dependable high quality smaller pumps – sometimes called “pumps in a box”. It’s this strength that has somewhat hidden the ongoing growth of the larger pump and bespoke systems business that Davey have been involved in for over 30 years. “Our Davey Water Solutions division is uniquely set up to handle those special dealer requirements when someone needs something out of the box,” said Davey’s General Manager of Sales and Marketing, Geoff Harvey. “We realise that in the industrial and irrigation business it’s definitely not a case of one size fits all.” 42
Davey have the ability to supply an extensive range of end suction, vertical multistage and submersible pump systems for a huge variety of irrigation application. They can also supply fully integrated pumping and water treatment solutions for stock, irrigation and even township water supply. Davey pumps and systems are available and supported in the field by Australia’s most extensive network of quality and experienced dealers. “It’s the local dealers that complete the package” said Geoff. “They’re vital to our success just as much as we’re vital to their success.” For information contact Davey Water Products Pty Ltd, phone 03 9730 9230 or go to their website www.davey.com.au
Davey 6 pump system for a remote town water supply system.
Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre
IRRIGATION AUSTRALIA CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION RETURNS IN 2016 23 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 27 May 2016 Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre Express your interest to participate at irrigationaustralia.com.au Presented by:
Organised by:
SPRING 2015
43
NEW PRODUCTS IB INTERNATIONAL
AD INDEX
HOW IMPORTANT IS FRESH FOOD?
Italians rush home for the last of the season’s crops – no matter where they are in the world! This kind of harmony with the land is measured by good meals at your favourite restaurant, or home cooking that surpasses anything you can remember. But good food doesn’t grow on supermarket shelves. We all know that proper irrigation makes it possible! In a race for efficiency all too often bland and unhealthy ingredients are the result. We all have a choice. Which irrigation will you buy? And who will you buy it from? Because more and more people everywhere are demanding good food. Recent upgrades to food labelling is a step in the right direction. A fresh vegetable straight from a healthy operated farm is worth rushing home for. Many Australians are taking their food choices back into their own hands and demanding what the Italians enjoy. This means good farming and patronage of those farms. IB International share these life sustaining values with our Italian colleagues. We understand this meaning behind the brand. Modena in Northern Italy produces the Ferrari, the Ducati, the best balsamic vinegar, the best Parmesan cheese and the best Ocmis hardhose in the world! Ocmis is the only brand Ocmis are proud to put their name to. And that’s why it is the only brand IB International sell.
IN THE NEXT ISSUE The Summer issue of Irrigation Australia Journal will feature: EDITORIAL > The chemistry of irrigation (e.g. managing nutrients, fertigation) > Soils and irrigation > Irrigation retailer directory ADVERTISING FEATURES > Low pressure irrigation > Annual Pumps Feature CONFIRM YOUR ADVERTISING PRESENCE NOW! Contact Brian Rault on 0411 354 050 or brian.rault@bcbmedia.com.au to receive advertising information.
To celebrate good food, good life, good family, and good irrigation, we are taking a group of people to Italy with us. And we promise you that once IB International and Ocmis show you this part of Italy you will understand the joys that comes from a commitment to excellence, to family, to food. IB International (proudly Australian) and Ocmis Irrigazione (proudly Italian) enjoy a special relationship – because we understand the true meaning behind the Ocmis brand. If you are interested in joining us simply tell us why you are interested in learning more about hardhose irrigation. Hardhose irrigation is more efficient in difficult terrain, narrow or odd shaped fields, several multi-cropping applications, strip irrigation, near roads and highways, small to medium sized farms and to complement pivots to extend coverage. Email mena@ibinternational.com.au and tell us how important good irrigation is to you.
AGnVET
29
Brown Brothers Engineering
37
CNH Australia Pty Ltd
5
Davey Water Products
35
Dwyer Instruments
15
Hunter Creative
11
MAIT Industries
Inside Front Cover
MBR Technologies Netafim
41 Outside Back Cover
Pentair Technologies
Inside Back Cover
Plasson Australia Pty Ltd
9
Ruralco Holdings Ltd (ProWater)
19
Sentek Sensor Technologies
33
Technical Irrigation Imports (Signal)
23
Toro Australia
31
Valmont Australia
35
WiSA Group
13
Xylem Water Systems Australia P/L
THE JOURNAL FOR IRRIGATION PROFESSIONALS
7
HAS YOU
COVERED...
STA-RITE® SHURFLO® EVERPURE®
JUNG PUMPEN® AQUATIC SYSTEMS® FLOTEC®
OMINFILTER® BERKELEY® EVERFLOW®
TURBOMASTER® AURORA® SEMA®
ONGA®
SOUTHERN CROSS®
visit us at www.onga.com.au
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CROP MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGY NETAJET 3G • Control the amount of water and fertilisers used. • Optimise resource utilisation. • Accurate and reliable. • Prevents water and fertiliser wastage, while reducing environmental pollution. • Dosing injector up to 5 channels, up to 1,000 L/Hr per channel. • EC/pH control Single or Dual. • Available as , Bypass or High Flow.
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Tel: 03 8331 6500 Fax: 03 9369 3865 Email: netinfo@netafim.com.au Web: netafim.com.au