Abstract:
The FAO/CNRE Working Group on Solar Energy for Heating greenhouses was established at the first solar energy network consultations in Israel in October 1983.
It main goals were to promote:
- Systematic exchange of information.
- Joint research activities.
- Establishment of recommendations for research and development and applications.
- Transfer of know-how to developing countries.
The working group, headed by Prof.
Von Zabeltitz completed the following activities:
- Completion of a state-of-the-art study "Greenhouse Heating with Solar Energy" describing about 50 projects in 15 countries.
- Organization of three workshops (in Cyprus, Greece and Turkey) to discuss the state-of-the-art study.
- Starting a joint experiment on passive storage of solar energy in greenhouses utilizing thin wall transparent polyethylene tubes.
- Cooperation with other groups on preparation of a guideline bulletin regarding conservation and renewable energies in greenhouses.
The main conclusions drawn from the first four years of activity:
- Utilization of solar energy for greenhouse heating in view of the low fuel prices is a difficult technical and economical task.
Only the most simple systems are applicable and cost effective.
- Cooperation with other groups dealing with energy conservation and other renewable sources is necessary.
- Combined horticultural and engineering research is most important to optimize production in greenhouses in the future.
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