New Zealand Energy Reducing Matrix Recommends Active Dehumidification from DryGair
A new initiative for the New Zealand horticulture sector, in the form of an energy reduction matrix, recommends active dehumidification. The matrix discusses DryGair specifically and includes an example from a local grower who’s had a lot of success using DG-12 dehumidifiers.
The energy reduction matrix was created by sustainability consultancy firm, Worley, for the New Zealand EECA (Energy Efficiency & Conservation Authority), Vegetables NZ, and Tomatoes NZ. The first being a government agency, and the latter two being grower organizations.
The matrix is, essentially, a flowchart that takes growers through three separate greenhouse elements – double-pane walls and ceilings, thermal screens, and active dehumidification. Each element has the ability to improve energy efficiency, significantly reducing growers’ energy consumption.
Southern Belle Orchard’s Experience with DryGair
DryGair is used as the benchmark for active dehumidification in the document, saying it can save 25-50% on energy use.
These figures are backed by data provided by Southern Belle Orchard, a pepper grower in Matamata. Southern Belle has been using 2 DG-12 units in its 3,000 m2 twin-plastic greenhouse since 2018, an investment which has long been paid back.
According to the report, Southern Belle Orchard has been able to utilize DryGair to reduce fuel consumption by 25%. Production has also gone up by 15%, as a result of fungal disease reduction and improved CO2 retention.
Improving CEA Energy Efficiency Worldwide
This initiative was also reported on by HortiDaily magazine, saying any CEA grower can adopt it to significantly reduce energy consumption.
“While this matrix was created for the New Zealand horticulture sector, it is an accurate representation of the global shift in greenhouse horticulture. The steps detailed in the report are relevant anywhere and may be helpful for growers attempting to cut energy costs or reduce their carbon emissions, worldwide.”
DryGair is distributed in New Zealand by AdvancedHort.
