Episode
15

Managing Energy and Carbon in the Greenhouse Industry Part 2

September 29, 2021
|
Duration:
1372647
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In This Episode:

Join energy coaches David Arkell and John Pooley on an episode about the greenhouse industry's role in energy consumption and carbon emissions. This episode features an overview of the greenhouse industry, what energy sources are used, and the impact of climate change on greenhouses.

Highlights

  • Greenhouse Control Systems:
    Greenhouses use advanced control systems to regulate temperature, CO₂, and lighting, optimizing conditions for plant growth while minimizing energy use.
  • Consumer Pressure for Sustainability:
    Retailers and consumers increasingly expect greenhouses to demonstrate efforts to reduce their carbon footprint, aligning with broader environmental trends.
  • Economic Impact of Carbon Taxes:
    The hosts discuss carbon tax policies in Ontario and their potential cost implications. With rising carbon tax rates, greenhouses may face significantly higher expenses unless they adopt sustainable practices.
  • Cogeneration and Heat Storage:
    Cogeneration (cogen) units provide multiple benefits by producing electricity, heat, and CO₂ simultaneously. Heat storage systems capture excess heat for later use, supporting energy efficiency in greenhouse operations.
  • Geographical Differences in Energy Costs:
    Carbon emission intensity varies by region; for example, Quebec has low emissions due to hydroelectricity, while Alberta relies on coal and natural gas, impacting greenhouse operational strategies.
  • Key Insights

  • Carbon Tax as a Cost Driver:
    Carbon tax rates are expected to increase, making energy costs a critical consideration. Greenhouses may need to transition to sustainable energy sources to remain profitable as carbon taxes rise.
  • Regional Grid Emissions:
    Greenhouses in regions with clean energy sources, like Quebec, benefit from lower carbon costs, while those in fossil fuel-reliant areas face higher carbon footprints and associated costs.
  • Consumer Awareness of Product Footprints:
    There is potential for carbon footprint labeling on produce, but implementation requires standardized and cost-effective labeling practices to be viable across the industry.
  • Advanced Heat Management:
    Greenhouses often use large tanks to store heat, showcasing energy storage as an industry standard for operational efficiency.
  • Sustainable Transport in Greenhouse Operations:
    The episode discusses the impact of diesel-powered transport in the greenhouse supply chain and the potential for cleaner alternatives, like electric trucks, to reduce carbon emissions.
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