Heating Our Greenhouses

In the Netherlands, large amounts of heat are generated as a byproduct of electricity production. More than half of the energy released during electricity generation is heat, which is often not used. However, at our company, greenhouse heating and sustainable energy solutions play a crucial role in efficiently utilizing this residual heat.

Combined Heat and Power (CHP)

At our company, we use a Combined Heat and Power (CHP) system, a motor that runs on gas to drive a generator, producing electricity for the power grid. The cooling of this machine is done using water from our greenhouse heating system, meaning the heat generated is efficiently used within our greenhouses.

Additionally, the CO₂ produced during electricity generation is reused in our greenhouses, as plants require CO₂ to grow. This process not only makes our operations more environmentally friendly but also cost-effective.

We generate electricity for the power grid when there is demand or when we need heat ourselves. Any excess heat is stored in large, well-insulated thermal buffers, which we use during the evening and night. This ensures that we always produce heat as needed and never waste it.

Recently, we installed an additional condenser on our CHP system, increasing the amount of heat extracted from each cubic meter of gas by 20%. By using both the residual heat and CO₂ from our CHP system, we make full use of all byproducts. Unlike large power plants, which waste excess heat, our greenhouse operation utilizes everything, making it a sustainable heating method.

Stabilizing the Power Grid

With the growing integration of solar and wind energy into the power grid, grid operators require more flexibility. CHP motors provide this flexibility as they can be switched on and off quickly.

Additionally, when there is a temporary surplus of sustainably produced solar or wind energy, we can use our electric boiler (E-boiler) to generate useful heat, which can be stored for later use.

In the coming years, power grid flexibility will be crucial to ensuring energy supply stability and maintaining grid balance. Our CHP system and E-boiler contribute to this effort.

Insulated Greenhouse

Another key factor in our sustainable energy strategy is the insulation of our greenhouse. Our greenhouse roof is made of twin-wall polycarbonate panels (stegdoppel plates). These panels consist of two plastic layers with an air-filled space in between, providing insulation and helping retain heat. Compared to a traditional glass greenhouse, this system saves 30% more heat.

Our greenhouse is also equipped with climate screens, which we close at night to retain heat. In summer, these screens protect our plants from excessive sunlight.

Lighting

To ensure high-quality plant growth even in winter, when natural sunlight is limited, we provide additional lighting. In 2024, we partially replaced our existing lighting with LED lights, significantly reducing electricity consumption.

Our LED lights are dimmable, allowing us to adjust their intensity based on available natural sunlight and other factors.

Dehumidification

Plants release moisture into the air as they grow, which can cause leaf damage and affect their quality. To prevent this, we have installed dehumidifiers in our greenhouses.

These dehumidifiers are equipped with sensors that detect when humidity levels are too high. Once activated, they extract moisture from the air. The water collected is directed to our water reservoir, where it is stored and reused for plant irrigation. This process combines efficient water usage with energy savings in horticulture.

Gas Consumption

There is ongoing debate about gas usage in horticulture. In our company, gas is used primarily for electricity production for the national grid. The Dutch greenhouse sector consumes about 9% of the country’s gas supply, but it contributes over 10% of the nation’s total electricity demand.

These facts are often overlooked but are essential in understanding the real impact of greenhouse horticulture on energy consumption.

Interest in Our Cultivation Methods

The Dutch horticultural sector is globally recognized for its innovation and self-sufficiency. We collaborate closely with technology companies and fellow growers to continuously improve our methods.

As climate change makes outdoor farming increasingly challenging in many parts of Europe, knowledge about controlled-environment agriculture (CEA)—using minimal water and limited pesticides—is becoming more valuable. Many international governments, businesses, investors, and students come to the Netherlands to learn from our expertise.

A Global Leader in Sustainable Horticulture

Since 1990, the Netherlands has reduced CO₂ emissions by 30%. The country currently relies on 70% fossil energy, while the global average is 80%.

Our horticulture sector is a world leader in producing plants, flowers, and vegetables—products that contribute to human health and well-being. Research has shown that green environments improve people's mental and physical health.

The Dutch horticulture industry plays a crucial role in sustainability and innovation, and no other country can easily take over this leadership position.