Energy and economic analysis of different seed corn harvesting systems in Iran

This study evaluated the energy balance and economic analysis between inputs and output of seed corn production in different harvesting systems in Iran. Data were collected from seed corn farms in Alborz province. The results indicated the total average energy input and output of 51.1 and 243.9GJha−1, respectively. The highest share in energy consumption belonged to chemical fertilizers (43%) followed by water for irrigation (19%) and diesel fuel (19%). The highest total energy input and output belonged to two stage harvesting system (using picker-husker) in comparison with other harvesting systems (combine and plot-harvester harvesting). The average energy use efficiency and productivity were calculated 4.78 and 0.05kgMJ−1, respectively. Combine harvesting had the highest energy ratio value (5.15) and followed by two stage harvesting system (4.78) and then plot harvester (4.40). Direct, indirect, renewable and non-renewable energies were 43%, 57%, 6%and 94% of total energy, respectively. Cost analysis revealed that total average cost of production and benefit–cost ratio were 3477 $ha−1 and 1.46, respectively. The benefit–cost ratio values for picker-husker, combine and plot harvester were 1.54, 1.53 and 1.32, respectively, that indicated harvesting by two stage harvesting system (using picker-husker) had more economic efficiency. ► Energy use and economic analysis of seed corn production was done. ► The average of total energy input and output were 51 and 244GJha−1, respectively. ► The chemical fertilizers and water for irrigation were the most important inputs. ► Total average production value and cost were 5092 $ha−1 and 3477 $ha−1, respectively. ► The highest benefit to cost ratio belonged to picker husker harvesting system.