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Eco-Friendly Heating Makes the Roses Smell Sweeter

Summary

A rose production farm switched away from oil-based heating of its greenhouses to burning locally sourced, wood biomass. This new system is both eco-friendly and sustainable, without compromising competitiveness and economic results.

Photo:

Background

This intensive rose production farm previously used fossil-based fuels to heat its greenhouses. The system not only became increasingly expensive to operate, it was also damaging to the environment due to its production of greenhouse gases. The owners therefore explored the options for a "greener solution", which could also be useful for increasing sales of its roses from the farm shop, particularly to more discerning and environmentally aware customers.

Objective

The main aim of the project was to convert the oil-based heating system on this rose production farm to a biomass system capable of heating efficiently and so contributing to cleaner, greener production, without losing competitiveness.

Main activities

Being an engineer, the applicant was comfortable with drafting and planning the project himself, without the need for external consultancy. Two of the more difficult tasks were understanding the environmental considerations and how to apply for the relevant licenses. Identifying the right construction and engineering skills required of the installation company was crucial. Managing the project and ensuring the quality of the work along the way, finished the job to the satisfaction of all.

Results & Benefits

The farm is able to source locally produced biomass for its new wood-based heating stove, burning wood clippings and sawdust. Not only has this greatly reduced the amount of oil-based fuels being used and which pollute the atmosphere, it has also reduced the carbon footprint of fuel delivery through significantly lower costs of transporting the fuels to the farm. Additionally, half a labour unit of work has been directly created, plus 1 additional unit in the region, due to using local resources

Lessons learnt

Become familiar with the requirements of the application process so that you are not delayed. Importantly, understand how to address the relevant legal steps in relation to environmental planning. You can avoid delays by identifying the relevant people to consult and discuss ideas and proposals with before you progress too far. A cost-benefit and investment return analysis should take account of fluctuating fuel prices. And enthusiasm is vital!

Project location and other information

Zeeland - Kapelle

Region

Zeeland

RDP Territory

Netherlands

Total project cost (€)

190 000

Contact name

Jos and Rianne Otte

Languages for contact

Dutch

At a glance

Country

Netherlands

Final beneficiary type

Individual farmers

Budget range

€100 000 - €500 000

Start date:

01/10/2008

End Date:

30/06/2009

Theme / Measure:

• Competitiveness of Agriculture & Forestry
• Restructuring, developing physical potential, and promoting innovation
• 121. Modernisation of agricultural holdings

Keywords:

Biomass, Renewable energy, Horticulture, Environmental management, Wood

Last update

06/06/2011