In a vertical farm, crops are grown in climate-controlled rooms under artificial light, giving growers a great deal of control over growing conditions. Their crops use significantly less water and are not affected by unpredictable weather. The challenge is making the business case – managing the costs so the crops can be sold for a profit.
Philips plant specialists and application engineers helped the Center select the right light recipes for cultivating lettuce without daylight. The research labs include two clean room labs, several multi-environment labs, and other cultivation environment simulation rooms.
Production yields have been increased by 30% through the use of localized air and temperature control. By operating at night when energy is less expensive in Japan, the Center has reduced its energy costs by over 30%. Professor Anpo says, “Since the farm is like a cleanroom, once the lettuces have been harvested they can be eaten without having to be washed first which is an added benefit for consumers.”
“Thanks to the Philips GreenPower LED production module, we have been able to cultivate lettuce favorably. The photosynthesis of lettuce has been sped up by exposing the lettuce to the optimal wavelength of light,” says Junichi Yamaguchi, Engineer, General Manager & Sales General Manger, GCN.
For more information
Philips Horticulture LED Solutions
Daniela Damoiseaux
Global MarCom Manager
High Tech Campus 45, Eindhoven
HTC 45, Ground Floor, PO Box 80020, 5600JM Eindhoven
T: +31 6 31 65 29 69