The audit presented 2 options to improve the efficiency of an 18kW pump: upgrading to a high efficiency model, or adding an VSD, both of which would save nearly $4,000 per year and pay back within around 2 years, with carbon emission reductions of 15 t CO₂-e per annum. The numbers presented in this case study correspond to the VSD solution.

The farm and retail store operate inland from Ayr on the Burdekin River. With a mean annual rainfall of 763mm, the farm cultivates various produce crops as well as sugar cane.

A trickle irrigation system with one main electric pump is used on the home block and a diesel pump on the back block. Water is accessed from SunWater.