Due to the rising popularity of LED lighting systems, driven by the high energy costs, the search for sustainability, and further boosted by incentives and rebate programs, the market for fixture suppliers and LED component suppliers has expanded rapidly. Although the efficiency of LEDs is often advertised, that's not solely what Thomas Grebner with ams OSRAM believes growers should focus on when buying a lighting system. "When talking about the efficiency of a lighting solution, it's also important to focus on the lifetime of the LEDs and the light degradation over that lifetime," he says.
Challenging conditions
Thomas explains that the horticultural market demands LEDs capable of withstanding the challenging conditions of greenhouse environments. "This includes high humidity, temperature fluctuations, and exposure to chemicals like sulfur from fertilizers. With all these parameters in mind, you need to ensure the chip can withstand these conditions," he explains.
With much attention given to the cost per micromole of light, the importance of the complete lifespan of LEDs can be overlooked—sometimes because growers do not always know this is something that can be tested. "But in the end, it's OPEX over CAPEX," says Thomas. "We test our components extensively to ensure they can ensure stable light output over the lifetime of a fixture. We can guarantee 98% of light output after 5 years of operations." However, this isn't always the case in the wider market. "Some lose up to 15% after only 2 or 3 years. Losing light means losing photosynthesis, biomass, and eventually turnover."
Another underestimated point is the role of intellectual property (IP). As previously discussed, many developments in the LED industry are patented. In recent years, patent infringements have occurred. Although Thomas is measured about this, he notes, "We cannot comment on how often, but looking at the number of new LED companies and new chips coming out of the blue, the probability is high that cases are arising." He stresses the potential consequences. "IP infringement might result in having to remove the fixtures or replace them."
How can growers avoid this? How can they know if the LEDs they want to invest in are of the right quality? "Look into the light," Thomas advises, "and ask your supplier what's being used. Even ask for reports on the quality of the components - a checked performance report, Humidity to Stress tests, and temperature cycle tests." If a supplier can provide these reports and they show good results, it's an indication of a good lifetime and low light degradation. "Then ask if they have experience and whether there are developmental steps showing improvement."
Especially when an LED supplier emerges suddenly, Thomas advises growers to question the chip technology and, for example, how the light is emitted from the chip. "If there is no answer, I would question the quality of the chip."
But why bother? Aren't contracts and warranties enough to cover these risks? "No," says Thomas, warranties may not always cover the risks "Not even when you include specifications and guarantees on light degradation, since we sometimes see newcomers go out of business completely. Developing LEDs that can withstand greenhouse circumstances is not easy, and even with a proper warranty, the hassle of replacements can be immense. Think of the production loss, disruption within the company, and unfulfilled contracts. The costs of production loss and disruption far outweigh the savings of choosing the right lighting solution upfront."
For more information:
ams OSRAM
www.ams-osram.com