Banca dati dei progetti dei PSR
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.
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
Project website
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