Features Efficiency Energy
Ultra high-tech semi-closed 10-ha greenhouse in NL

This week, the Kaaij Group opened its first KUBO ‘Ultra Clima’ semi-closed greenhouse in The Netherlands, a design which provides substantial energy and CO₂ savings.

This move follows in the footsteps of Houweling (Oxnard, US), the first company to use this innovative greenhouse concept. Houweling became the world’s first commercial greenhouse to harvest more than 100kg of tomatoes per m2. Cris-P (4.4 ha) and Windset (26 ha) have also constructed this greenhouse.

As it states on the Kubo website:

In contrast to conventional greenhouses, the climate in this innovative 10-ha semi-closed greenhouse can be adjusted more precisely. “Additionally, KUBO Ultra Clima greenhouses work with overpressure and are so well-sealed with gauze that insects don’t stand a chance of entering, allowing not only for clean and safe cultivation practices, but also for pesticide-free cultivation.

As humidity is extracted in such a well-regulated manner, substantial energy savings are achieved as well. Also, more light enters the greenhouse as there are substantially fewer air windows and less light is obstructed by the greenhouse framework.”

The Van de Kaaij brothers expect to introduce three new tomato lines in December 2012, including Red Star.

KUBO is this project’s principal contractor, collaborating with its regular partners: Peter Dekker Installaties (screening) and Verkade Klimaat (heating). Kaaij also opted for the installation of the W gutter and the W deck, as well as special diffused glass with an AR coating.

The benefits:
• Approx. 5 to 15% more light by omitting fresh-air vents and, with that, insect mesh on the roof.
• Diminished pest pressure by keeping out insects.
• Optimised humidity and temperature control.
• Higher CO₂-levels inside the greenhouse.
• A greater air buffer zone in the greenhouse because of a 7-metre-high structure, resulting in a better climate.
• Minimal water and nutrients usage through recirculation
• An energy conservation of 15 to 25% proves attainable in practice.
• Higher production volumes (15 to 20%).

For many photos with detailed captions, visit here.