ISHS Acta Horticulturae 429: XIII International Symposium on Horticultural Economics
MODELLING OF ECONOMIC ENERGY SAVINGS IN DUTCH GREENHOUSE INDUSTRY |
| Author: | N.J.A. van der Velden |
| Abstract:
The Dutch greenhouse industry uses a lot of energy. Growers and the government share the goal of improved energy efficiency by saving energy. The decision of growers to invest in energy saving options depends on the technical performance of the options and on economic data. Technical performances are different for each individual greenhouse holding, and economic conditions can change in the future. To investigate technical and economic potentials of energy saving alternatives, a simulation model has been developed. The model is based on the Farm Accountancy Data Network of LEI-DLO, which gives information on the present energy situation of the Dutch greenhouse industry. In addition, the model uses as input technical conditions and performances of the options and economic data. The output is the present, technical maximum, and potential penetration rates of the options in the greenhouse industry. The potential penetration rates, in turn, result in potential energy savings and investments. The economic potential for improving penetration rates is much lower than the technical ones. Condenser, heat storage and heat delivery are options with economic possibilities. The potential energy savings are 14% of the energy use of the sector and the investments are 182 million Guilders. Better technical performance of the energy saving options can improve the economic potentials. A higher gas price as well as subsidies on investments have a small effect on the results. A higher price of electricity delivered to the public grid decreases the potential for heat delivery but increases the potential for cogeneration installations by growers. This requires substantial investments from the growers. | |
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