An energy analysis of a North Island hard hill country sheep and cattle unit

Abstract

A report is presented on two methods of Energy Analysis applied to the operation of a North Island hard hill country, store sheep and cattle unit, situated in Taranaki.

Energy Intensities, in the form of Energy Dollar Ratios developed from Process Analysis and from national Input-Output Analysis, were applied to financial information obtained for an eleven year period (1969 to 1979).

An economic analysis was carried out to determine Internal Rates of Return and Cost Benefit Ratios.

Although the Energy Analysis techniques are dissimilar in the way that they derive Energy Dollar Ratios, results obtained were found to be similar under certain conditions.

An analysis of the results, using indices of system performance, indicated that the study unit's performance could be compared with that obtained from Energy Analysis studies carried out using New Zealand Meat and Wool Board, Sheep and Beef Farm Survey data.

A further detailed analysis is required to confirm the findings of this report.