The Scientific-Educational Center “Baikal” in Irkutsk has launched the National Center for Hydroponics and Advanced Agricultural Technologies, integrating cutting-edge science, higher education, and business to propel Russian agriculture into the future. This initiative, supported by local and national stakeholders, aims to revolutionize food production through sustainable and efficient farming methods.
On May 27, 2024, the Scientific-Educational Center “Baikal” in Irkutsk region officially opened the National Center for Hydroponics and Advanced Agricultural Technologies. This groundbreaking project, a synergy of science, education, and business, aims to position Russia at the forefront of agricultural innovation. The opening ceremony saw the signing of a consortium agreement, bringing together key partners including “Ecosphere” (LLC “Russian Hydroponics”), “Pulp-Agro,” and Irkutsk State Agrarian University.
Each partner brings unique expertise to the table:
- Ecosphere is the technological partner, responsible for manufacturing specialized hydroponic equipment.
- Pulp-Agro provides the production site.
- Irkutsk State Agrarian University conducts plant research, experimenting with nutrient compositions to enhance the vitamin and micronutrient content of crops, as well as developing unique flavors.
Marina Petrova, Deputy Minister of Economic Development and Industry of the Irkutsk region, emphasized the project’s significance, stating, “The National Center for Hydroponics exemplifies the synergy of science, higher education, and business envisioned by the Scientific-Educational Center ‘Baikal.’ This initiative has already attracted interest from partners across Russia. I wish all participants growth and development, spreading this experience nationwide and establishing large-scale production sites here in Priangarye using vertical farming technologies.”
The idea for the center emerged in 2023, and production of hydroponic green fodder systems, made entirely from domestic components, began the same year. By the end of 2023, equipment was procured for the regional research facility, and several laboratories were launched at Irkutsk State Agrarian University.
Evgeny Semenov, Director of the Fund for Strategic and Innovative Development of the Irkutsk region and project office of the Scientific-Educational Center “Baikal,” noted, “There are many companies in Russia developing hydroponics, as these technologies represent the future. The unique offer of the Priangarye consortium is a turnkey farm package with high-performance equipment, agritechnologies, and a digital platform for production management.”
The opening event attracted potential investors, including LLC “KarelAgroPonics,” which plans to establish the largest hydroponic farm in Russia in the Republic of Karelia. This project will likely involve enterprises from the Irkutsk region, solidified by a signed Memorandum of Intent.
The National Center for Hydroponics and Advanced Agricultural Technologies in Irkutsk represents a major step forward in Russia’s agricultural sector. By leveraging local expertise and fostering innovation, this center aims to enhance food security and promote sustainable farming practices nationwide. The collaboration between science, education, and business is set to transform agricultural production, making it more efficient and environmentally friendly.
