Dutch horticulture demands more funding for energy efficiency
Horticulture
Over the last few years, thinking in terms of 'zero energy' has become increasingly important. Horticulture already plays an important role in this line of thinking, such as the field of geothermal energy. But the industry can do much more, says Faaij. "There is still more potential in the area of (semi-) closed greenhouses and clustering of glasshouse companies. Also, horticulture can be more sustainable in recycling raw materials and the reduction of emissions. Moreover, there are opportunities to create more and better links to the utility as a whole, and horticulture has great potential to alter its ecological footprint."
Learning curve
"Money made available for energy research continues to decrease. That is a worrying development, as research, according to many sources, pays for itself many times over," says Faaij. "It's a learning curve. In order to learn, you need to invest. Where this leads, you can’t always predict, but we can conclude that research always leads to overall global energy savings. Through research, the production of green energy achieves better returns, improves the recycling of raw materials and reduces reliance on fossil fuels. Either way, cutting back on research is extremely unwise."
Dragging our feet
"The Netherlands has one of the best energy networks in the world, but nothing stays the same," Faaij warns. "Besides, that change is accelerating. Recent Dutch energy policy has been fairly uneven, and the collaboration between the industry and the government has been far from optimal. In some areas we have been dragging our feet, especially compared to the rest of Europe. That is worrisome."