Ebtech Glasshouse Systems Ltd develops turnkey horticultural solutions, delivering projects tailored to growers' needs. "We specialize in offering complete or standalone projects, including new and used glasshouses, screening, irrigation, benching, heating, electrical works, civils, and control systems," explains Tony Walker, Managing Director of Ebtech Glasshouse Systems.
This versatility has enabled the company to handle various projects, including a recent energy screening installation for The Summer Berry Company's strawberry operation in Chichester.
Optimizing greenhouse infrastructure
The Summer Berry Company project is one example of Ebtech's innovations in greenhouse technology. The project, conducted in collaboration with Dutch partners Holland Scherming and Ludvig Svensson, involved replacing cloth, motors, and all associated parts of the screening system across nine growing areas totaling 38,534.40m².
"One of the best upgrades of the project that stood out for us was the installation of Ridder screen drive units, including eight RW1200 units and one RW403, all three-phase, complete with chain couplings. Enhanced screening improves energy efficiency while also reducing greenhouse light emissions at night," Tony explains. The project utilized Ludvig Svensson's energy-saving, light pollution-reducing cloth, which also helps regulate heat and moisture.
Challenges in crop rotation
The installation process presented unique logistical challenges due to The Summer Berry Company's crop rotation schedule. "Our client extended their cropping by a few weeks, delaying our start date but maintaining the original re-cropping deadline," says Tony. This time constraint meant the Ebtech team had to work faster to meet the tight timeline.
Additional obstacles arose as work commenced. "The old crop had to be cleared out while we started the installation, and grow gutters remained in place, requiring us to operate around them. With grow lights throughout the house and heating pipes on the floor, using scissor lifts wasn't an option," Tony adds.
To overcome these hurdles, Ebtech employed a specially designed framework system that ran on the heating pipes. "It enabled the installation crew to span further across each bay, which was 9.60m wide, significantly improving efficiency," Tony notes. Despite these challenges, the new screen system was successfully installed, providing the grower with an upgraded and reliable solution.
Industry trends and market outlook
Reflecting on the current market, Walker notes that the past year has been favorable for Ebtech, with strong demand across various sectors. "We've worked with research institutions, universities, and garden centers. However, commercial growers have been quieter, though we're optimistic that this segment is picking up again," he observes. "The emphasis on energy-efficient and high-tech systems is driving growth."
New projects on the horizon
In addition to their work with The Summer Berry Company, Ebtech is engaged in an innovative project at FERA Biosciences near York. "It involves constructing two glasshouses, each with four controlled zones, HVAC units, screening, and more—another full turnkey project," shares Tony.
"We pride ourselves on delivering excellence across all facets of horticultural projects," Tony concludes.
For more information:
Ebtech Glasshouse Systems Ltd
Tony Walker, Managing Director
[email protected]
www.ebtechglasshouses.co.uk