• Greenhouse Industry Overview:
  Greenhouses are essential for providing fresh produce, especially in regions like Ontario, which has a major greenhouse sector. The industry supports local jobs and reduces food miles, delivering fresh products to consumers year-round.
• Energy-Intensive Operations:
  Greenhouses require substantial energy, often comparable to an automotive assembly plant. Common energy sources include natural gas, biomass, and electricity, each with varying implications for cost and emissions.
• Carbon Reduction vs. Importing Food:
  There is a debate over whether to grow produce locally in energy-intensive greenhouses or import it from warmer regions, with a focus on the carbon footprint of each option.
• Lighting Requirements and Costs:
  Greenhouses use high-pressure sodium (HPS) and LED lights to supplement natural sunlight. Lighting is one of the largest energy demands, with HPS lighting systems typically requiring about 500 kW per acre.
• Location and Energy Access Challenges:
  Greenhouses face challenges in regions where power grid infrastructure is insufficient, requiring strategic planning to ensure reliable energy access and avoid production delays.

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