Improving energy efficiency in horticulture by conducting data-driven audits

Soaring energy costs continue to put growers under pressure, and much of the agri-food supply chain is being heavily impacted by unprecedented increases.

Growers who produce energy-intensive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers are among those to be hit the hardest.

Energy has always been important to growers, and as they bid to reduce costs and protect their profits, finding a way to improve their energy efficiency remains top of the priority list.

But with the energy crisis showing no sign of ending soon and volatility continuing to affect the market, now might be the time to consider capital investment projects which may not previously have seemed financially viable.

The best way for any grower to lower costs is through improved energy efficiency, as reduced costs typically lead to increased profitability. Sometimes it can also provide a competitive market advantage.

By conducting a data-driven audit of current energy usage, it is possible to see how and where growers are actually using energy to pinpoint potential solutions that could optimize usage.

• Bigger heat storage systems
• More efficient heat generation
• Off-grid power solutions
• Combined heat and power
• Biomass boilers
• Replacement or upgraded screens

Growers can also see the capital and operational expenditure that will be required, as well as any potential payback periods so that they can make an informed investment decision.