Netherlands: Major new LED project for tomato

The project 'LED it be 50%’ has been honoured by Dutch Technology Foundation STW. In this project by Wageningen UR, a lot of basic knowledge about plant physiology and LED lighting in tomato cultivation is being gathered. The project also trains 11 specialists in 5.5 years.

The project leader, professor Leo Marcelis of Wageningen UR, set up the mission with LTO Glaskracht Netherlands, Philips and several breeding and propagation companies. The idea is to eventually reach 50% energy savings with LED lighting. The group "Kas als Energiebron”, or “Greenhouse as Energy Source”, has already issued an approval for co-financing by LTO Glaskracht Nederland earlier this year.

During the project, basic understanding ought to come from plant physiology in regard to LED lighting. This includes things like the water balance of the plant, optimal light distribution, plant architecture, but also developing a management support system. The research is done on tomato plants, but general principles will be translated into other crops.

Those involved hope to boost crop development and energy savings.

Source: Energiek 2020