Horse power in a different direction could play a major role in lighting up of the world.

This follows a pilot scheme adopted in Florida, USA, which intends to use the material that comes out of the rear end of horses, the manure, as a source of power.

It is estimated that 100,000 tons of excess equine waste is available from the paddocks and stable blocks of Florida farms and training stables.

The Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' and Owners' Association have formed a joint venture with an alternative energy company with the goal of using the waste to create renewable energy.

The agreement would result in a facility in Florida that would convert horse manure and wood waste from the horse farms and training centers into steam to generate electrical power, which would then be sold to power companies.

Besides its use as an alternative power source, the collection of the manure in particular would have the added benefit of keeping it out of the waterways and providing cleaner paddocks.

Success of the scheme could stimulate similar use of the manure in Australia. An area like the Hunter Valley is likely to be a source of at least 100,000 tons of manure annually.