GRAIN DRYING ENERGY COSTS
Grain Drying Electricity Costs for UK Farms
Grain drying is one of the most energy-intensive activities on an arable farm. Understanding the electricity costs involved helps you assess whether your current contract is suitable and what to look for when renewing.
Understanding Electricity Costs for Grain Drying
Grain drying is one of the most energy-intensive activities on an arable farm.
The electricity consumed during harvest can represent a significant proportion of the farm's annual energy spend.
Understanding the costs involved helps you assess whether your current contract is suitable and what to look for when renewing.
We can help you review your grain drying electricity supply, understand the charges and compare available contract options.
What Uses Electricity During Grain Drying?
Grain Handling and Drying
Grain dryers, conveyors, elevators and fans all consume electricity.
The total load depends on the equipment installed, the throughput required and the moisture content of the grain.
Larger installations may have a significant maximum import capacity (MIC) which affects standing and capacity charges.
Heating Fuel Is Separate
Most grain dryers use a separate fuel — typically gas oil, LPG or natural gas — for the heat source.
The electricity supply powers the fans, conveyors and controls rather than the burner itself.
Heating fuel costs are separate from the electricity contract and are not included in the electricity bill.
Cooling and Storage
Ambient aeration and refrigerated storage systems also consume electricity after the drying process.
These loads may be more consistent throughout the year than the drying equipment itself.
Understanding the full electricity profile of the grain store helps identify the most suitable contract type.
Illustrative only. Actual costs depend on equipment, usage, contract terms and applicable charges.
Illustrative Electricity Cost Calculation
The following example illustrates how electricity costs for grain drying might be estimated. It uses simplified assumptions and is for guidance only.
Dryer load
15 kW
Daily running time
8 hours
Drying season
20 days
15 kW × 8 hours × 20 days = 2,400 kWh
2,400 kWh × £0.25 per kWh = £600
Estimated electricity cost for the drying season: £600
This example uses a simplified unit rate and does not include standing charges, capacity charges or other applicable fees.
Actual costs will vary depending on the equipment, contract terms and the specific charges applicable to the supply.
This example excludes taxes, standing charges and separately purchased heating fuels such as gas oil or LPG.
Use the calculator: The Farm Electricity Cost Checker on the main Farmers hub lets you enter your own equipment load, running time and unit rate to estimate seasonal electricity costs.
What to Consider When Renewing Your Grain Drying Electricity Contract
The following points are worth considering when reviewing or renewing the electricity contract for a grain drying supply.
We can help you review each of these points in the context of your specific supply and available contract options.
Contract Timing
Grain drying electricity is typically used intensively for a short period. A contract that starts or ends during the harvest season may not be the most suitable arrangement.
Capacity Charges
If the supply has a significant maximum import capacity, capacity or availability charges may apply regardless of actual consumption. These should be understood before comparing unit rates.
Day and Night Rates
If the dryer operates overnight, a day and night tariff may be worth considering. The benefit depends on the proportion of consumption at night and the applicable rates.
Contract Length
Longer contracts may offer price certainty but reduce flexibility. Shorter contracts may be more suitable if the farm's energy requirements are likely to change.
Next Steps
If you would like help reviewing your grain drying electricity supply, we can assist with the following.
Contact us to discuss your grain drying electricity supply.
- Reviewing your current contract and charges.
- Identifying the relevant supply and meter details.
- Comparing available contract options.
- Explaining the terms and helping with the paperwork.
We explain our fees and commission arrangements before you decide.
You remain in control of the decision.
Further reading
Further Information
The following resources provide independent information about grain drying and energy management.