Total energy consumption and other performance related information from four different make of new curing barns was collected at the same on-farm location. Direct comparisons were made with two existing make barns. The primary objective was to provide growers with independent on-farm performance-based information to assist them with curing infrastructure decisions. The season average curing efficiency for the new barns was 14.5 lb cured leaf / gal LP gas compared to 11.6 lb cured leaf / gal LP gas for the existing barns. This is approximately a 25% increase in energy efficiency (fuel only) and as a result a cost reduction of approximately 2¢ per pound cured based on 2014 fuel prices. Averaged over the season, the curing time for the new barns ranged 6.5 days to 7.8 days. The two existing barns averaged 8.6 days and 7.1 days, respectively. The largest new barn leaf capacity was approximately 50% more than the two existing barns. A reduction in curing time combined with an increase in leaf capacity will result in fewer barns needed for a given acreage. Grower feedback indicated limited differences, if any, observed in the cured leaf quality and management requirements between the new barns. Although energy performance alone is not the justification for selecting a given make barn, it is an important factor because of the production costs associated with curing. Other factors include the new barn cost, leaf capacity, serviceability and maintenance requirements. This independent information can assist all growers with curing infrastructure decisions. Additionally, performance-based comparisons and manufacturer competition can result in engineering innovations and barn improvements to better serve growers and the industry. (Reprinted with permission)