Sensible use of primary energy in organic greenhouse production

Summary

Review of the major sources for energy consumption in organic greenhouse horticulture and analyse of the options available to reduce energy consumption or, at least, increase the energy use efficiency of organic production in greenhouses. At the moment, the best way to match demand and availability of electricity (solar and wind power) is through the grid, also in view of existing subsidies for electricity sale to the grid. There is some scope for local application of solar thermal energy for heating and/or humidity management, although this requires a large investment in thermal buffering. In combined organic farms there is scope for biomass burning and/or biogas production. Technology developments ensure that currently there are commercial greenhouse operations that benefit from the use of biomass and, in some cases, biogas. Such alternative energy sources are progressively replacing traditional (and more pollutant) fuels.