Kennedy Creek Growers, LLC, an agricultural business in Lackawanna County, specializes in USDA-certified organic culinary herbs grown hydroponically in controlled greenhouse environments. Operating two 11-acre properties, their greenhouses run year-round, resulting in significant energy demand from heating, lighting, and water pumping systems.
After making improvements to some of their greenhouse structures and heating system, owner Josh Zieger wanted a clearer picture of where their next strategic investments should be made. He sought PennTAP’s guidance on energy efficiency opportunities, working with Technical Advisor Krista Schneider who supports businesses in the Northeast PA region.
Supported by the USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), Schneider conducted a no-cost Pollution Prevention/Energy Efficiency (P2/E2) Assessment in January 2025. During a site visit, she evaluated greenhouse building envelopes, lighting systems, pumps, and heating and cooling systems, and used infrared imaging to identify opportunities for insulation enhancements.
From this analysis, Schneider provided data-driven recommendations to reduce both electricity and fuel consumption, identifying actionable improvements such as:
- Building envelope and heating system upgrades to reduce heat loss and improve thermal performance
- Weatherstripping to reduce air infiltration
- Greenhouse inflation fans to improve insulation
- Water pump timer cycling to reduce continuous electrical load
- LED grow lighting upgrades for substantial long-term savings
With full implementation, these improvements could result in more than $71,000 in annual energy savings, plus fuel savings.
Commitment to Improvements Shows Early Results
Despite limited staff time and competing priorities during winter preparation, Kennedy Creek Growers implemented several of PennTAP’s recommendations within a year following the assessment, including building envelope improvements, inflation fans, and water pump optimization. So far, the business estimates total annual savings of nearly $33,000.
Zieger reports that the building envelope improvements are showing noticeable benefits, including better heat retention and one unplanned but welcome outcome: “We’ve noticed better plant growth in the greenhouses where we completed some of the projects. That wasn’t part of the audit, but it’s a nice ancillary benefit,” he said. Further measurable impact is anticipated from a review of costs in the winter and early spring months of 2026.
The lighting upgrade—representing the largest potential energy reduction—is currently being eyed for a RISE PA grant program opportunity. Schneider is working with KCG on collecting the data needed to prepare an application, and with ClearResult to maximize KCG’s electricity rebates available through PPL’s Act 129 program.
PennTAP’s support allowed the business to make informed, strategic decisions through Schneider’s efforts, which Zieger said would have taken far more internal time and resources than the team had available.
A Stronger, More Efficient Future for Kennedy Creek Growers
With several improvements already implemented, Kennedy Creek Growers is positioned for savings and long-term sustainability. Zieger’s team will also enjoy better informed long-term planning for future investments.
________________________________________________________________________________
Client: Kennedy Creek Growers, LLC
Location: North Abington Township, PA
Advisor: Krista Schneider, Technical Advisor, PennTAP
Funding: USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP)