In a significant move towards sustainable orchid cultivation, Van Geel Orchid, based in Erica, Drenthe, has transitioned from traditional high-pressure sodium (HPS) lighting to water-cooled LED fixtures. This strategic shift aligns with the company’s long-standing commitment to environmentally conscious and energy-efficient growing practices.
For nearly two decades, Van Geel Orchid, under the stewardship of Martijn van Geel, has consistently produced approximately 30,000 orchid plants per week, with a significant portion boasting two stems. Sustainability has remained at the core of their cultivation approach, with a focus on creating ideal conditions for both plants and the environment.
One of the primary reasons for the shift to LED lighting was to increase energy efficiency. By making this transition, Van Geel Orchid witnessed a remarkable 60% boost in light levels while simultaneously reducing energy costs by around 25%. This impressive achievement can be attributed to the high-efficiency LED fixtures supplied by Oreon, which have gained recognition in the industry.
The innovative LED fixtures also offer an additional benefit by providing a sustainable solution for heat reuse. In Van Geel Orchid’s 2.2-hectare greenhouse, residual heat generated by the LED fixtures is harnessed to warm the propagation department, reaching temperatures of up to 30°C. This ingenious repurposing of heat ensures that energy derived from the efficient LED lighting is maximally utilized, further contributing to the company’s sustainability efforts.
The transition to full-LED lighting includes the installation of Oreon’s “Monarch High Efficiency” LED fixtures. These fixtures are designed not only for their impressive energy efficiency, with a range of 3.6 to 3.9 μmol/J, but also for their flexibility in terms of spectrum customization and individualized light intensity control.
To manage the new LED lighting system, Van Geel Orchid has adopted the Oreon LED Control Center, which seamlessly integrates with the Hoogendoorn climate computer. This integration provides Martijn van Geel and his team with unparalleled flexibility and control over the lighting conditions throughout the greenhouse. Each square meter of the facility is now fully controllable, ensuring optimal lighting conditions for the stationary crop.
The transition to LED lighting was made possible through a collaborative effort. Ledgnd played a pivotal role in facilitating the application process for a subsidy scheme, while Erik Creve of Indagro lighting bvba managed the installation of the water system. Existing cabling and panels were repurposed for the electricity installation, further enhancing the project’s efficiency.
The new LED lighting configuration at Van Geel Orchid is scheduled to be operational by mid-October. This transition marks a significant step forward in their journey toward sustainable and efficient orchid cultivation, reinforcing their position as industry leaders in environmentally responsible horticultural practices.