Optimization of Energy Use in Agricultural Sector in Kashmar District

The issue of subsidies and the effects on costs and followed by consumption pattern of inputs, must be noted to the optimization of inputs energy consumption. The purpose of this study is optimization of energy use in agricultural sector in Kashmar district using information of 2009-2010. The model used is multi-objective programming with interval parameter. First, energy input of products and consumption share of energy inputs in production was estimated and then optimization of energy consumption in the agricultural sector was considered with regard to the objectives and constraints and optimal cropping pattern was presented with regard to different levels of available inputs. Finally, regard to the energy equivalent inputs, optimal value of energy consumption for each input was calculated in different levels of risk. The results showed that there is a less difference between actual and optimal energy consumption of inputs in risk free conditions rather than conditions that risk values is 1.65 and 1.95. In the model with risk conditions, the difference between actual and optimal energy consumption levels was increased. Water at all levels has the most difference in actual and optimal values and nitrate fertilizer showed minimal differences. Finally, use of products with less water needs, and determining the amount of input energy of different irrigation methods and also optimal use of the other inputs are suggested.

JEL Classification: C61

Keywords:
Optimization, Energy Consumption, Agricultural Sector, Multi Objective Programming