Increase of electricity usage by Dutch growers

Electricity consumption in horticulture is growing. In 2011, about 6.2 billion kWh was used. In 2005 this was 4.2 billion kWh. In 2011, about 82% of this was used for lighted cultivation. Three-quarters of this percentage goes to floriculture (flowers and plants), a quarter to vegetable propagation. Of the remaining 18%, 10% goes to energy consumption in and around the boiler room, 3% to general equipment, 3% is used in the greenhouse itself, and 2% in the water space.

The increase in lighting is mainly due to the increase in exposure intensity (W/m2) and to a lesser extent by the increase in the exposed area (ha) and the operating time (hours / year). Equipment in the greenhouse also uses up a lot of electricity. This is due to the increased use of renewable and efficient energy sources. These sources often use more electricity. In the greenhouse, the climate is further optimized and the internal transport increased.

In the future, the electricity consumption will continue to grow because of increased horticulture. Intensified use of combined heat and power (CHP) plants also contributes to stacking up an impressive electricity bill.

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