Conservation Programs

Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) Program

Central Electric Cooperative and the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) are offering a cash rebate for installing VFD controls to improve the efficiency of electrically powered irrigation turbine pumps. Watch this video to see how two CEC members are saving energy, money, time and worry through the installation of a variable frequency drive (VFD) to control the flows of Big Bertha, the 350-horsepower pump that irrigates their farming operations.

Eligibility

The irrigation pump to be controlled with a VFD must:

• Be within CEC's service territory.
• Be billed as an irrigation account with two full years of “typical” usage history.
• Be a turbine style irrigation pump.

How much is the rebate?

The rebate is $40.00 per installed motor horsepower controlled by the VFD. BPA estimates the energy savings to be 400 kWh per year per horsepower controlled by a VFD.

Minimum Requirements

• There is an existing minimum variation in flow rates of 20% or discharge pressure requirements of 10%.
• Equipment purchased after 12/7/09.
• Installations shall meet IEEE 519 standards.
• The pumping application must be used for the delivery, distribution or transport of water for irrigation purposes.

More Information

For more information, follow this link to our VFD Program Description and Rebate Application. These forms list the steps involved and includes a formal application for this energy saving rebate program. Print out the forms and follow the instructions.

If you have any questions about this program, please call Central Electric Cooperative before making a purchase.

Please note: This is a Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) energy efficiency program. BPA programs are subject to change without notice.