Abstract: According to the experimental data of this study, under well managed conditions it is possible to utilize microwave energy for drying of rice with relatively high efficiency. Resting time (or tempering time) between every two periods of microwave drying is important for obtaining high energy efficiency, as there are the effects of tempering, or post radiation, or intermittent radiation. And energy efficiency with resting time between every two periods of drying was much higherthan that without resting time. So, drying methods are important for energy efficiency. Loading methods are also important for energy efficiency. And thin layer drying method is recommended for microwave drying from the viewpoint of energy efficiency.