Assessment, simulation and optimization of a prototype net zero energy greenhouse for ontario

Lead Applicant: William Lubitz

Research Priority: Competitive Production Systems Projects

Program Type: Tier 1

Funding Cycle: 2022/2023

Research Centre: NA

Research Summary: Energy efficiency is increasingly important in Ontario greenhouse horticulture. Still, most greenhouse production in Ontario is energy-intensive, requiring expensive inputs of fuel and electricity to maintain production in the spring, fall and winter seasons. Three years ago, Ceres Gerenhouse Solutions partnered with greenhaus inc. to design, build and successfully operate a prototype energy-efficient year-round hydroponic lettuce solar greenhouse near Ottawa, which is a rare example of a greenhouse staying energy-efficient at a commercial scale. This project involves studying the greenhouse to validate the University of Guelph's greenhouse simulation model to help determine at which climate conditions a greenhouse can operate with net zero energy (no net greenhouse gases produced) or modest energy inputs through different growing seasons.

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