Energy Consumption for Different Greenhouse Constructions

Abstract

In this paper influence of greenhouse structure was estimated for four different double plastic covered greenhouses in winter lettuce production in Serbia region. Plastic coverings were introduced as mean of making this kind of plant production more efficient. Also, as a mean of lowering energy consumption, tunnel structures were proposed. Four different double plastic covered greenhouses were used for energy analysis. Two tunnel types, 9 x 58 m and 8 x 25 m covered with double PE folia, and two gutter connected plastic covered greenhouses. One greenhouse was 2 x 7 m wide and 39 m long and the other 20 x 6.4 in wide and 42 m long. The method used, is based on energy input analysis (definition of direct and indirect energy inputs), energy consumption for given plant production, and energy efficiency. On the basis of lettuce production output (kg of lettuce) and energy input, energy input/kg of product, energy out/in ratio and energy productivity were estimated. Results show lowest energy consumption for gutter connected greenhouses. Energy out/in ratio was also higher in gutter connected greenhouse. Highest energy consumption was obtained in tunnel greenhouse 8 x 25m.