Episode
29

Inside a Greenhouse: Energy Consumption with Derek Schulze

January 12, 2022
|
Duration:
2263922
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In This Episode:

Join David Arkell, John Pooley, and greenhouse expert Derek Schulze on an episode about a greenhouse's energy consumption and carbon emissions. This episode features the growth and focus of the greenhouse industry, energy costs, future energy and carbon issues, and more.

Highlights

  • Introduction to Greenhouse Energy Use:
    Greenhouses depend on reliable energy sources like natural gas, biomass, or geothermal for heating. Efficient energy use is crucial to minimize costs and environmental impact.
  • Data Monitoring and System Adaptation:
    Schulze emphasizes the need for regular monitoring and adjustments to ensure optimal energy use. Greenhouse operators use complex heating and lighting systems tailored to each crop’s needs.
  • Buffer Tanks for Energy Management:
    Schulze discusses the installation of a buffer tank to manage heat demand, allowing the greenhouse to store excess heat during off-peak times and reduce peak energy consumption.
  • Challenges of Labor and Supply Chain Logistics:
    Greenhouses face issues with labor shortages and supply chain demands, particularly with cross-border transport of plants, which requires compliance with varying regulations.
  • Climate Change and Future Prospects:
    Schulze notes that greenhouses are less affected by extreme weather compared to outdoor farming, positioning them as resilient agricultural options in the face of climate change.
  • Key Insights

    • Balancing Energy with Plant Health:
      Efficient energy management must consider plant needs, as overemphasis on cost-saving can compromise plant growth and quality.
    • Skill in Energy and System Management:
      Greenhouse operators must be well-versed in managing energy systems, from boiler maintenance to data analysis, to ensure long-term viability.
    • Importance of Infrastructure and Investment:
      Investments in infrastructure, like buffer tanks and advanced automation, provide long-term savings by enhancing energy efficiency.
    • Future of Greenhouses with Climate Change:
      As climate becomes more unpredictable, greenhouses offer controlled environments, making them a growing option for reliable crop production.
    • Role of Greenhouse Industry in Sustainability:
      Greenhouses are innovating with solutions like carbon capture and energy efficiency, contributing to more sustainable agriculture.
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