In a significant move towards sustainable horticulture, Royal Brinkman has successfully transformed a former tomato greenhouse into a state-of-the-art potted plant nursery. This 3.5-hectare facility, located in De Lier, The Netherlands, was acquired by KP Holland to expand its operations and now exemplifies modern, energy-efficient greenhouse practices.
Innovative Upgrades and Collaborations
The transformation project was a collaborative effort between KP Holland and Royal Brinkman Technical Projects. The objective was to upgrade the existing greenhouse infrastructure to align with the Green Label Greenhouse standards, which emphasize energy efficiency and sustainability.
The project faced several challenges, notably the reuse of the existing greenhouse structure. Royal Brinkman and KP Holland worked meticulously to identify which materials and elements could be retained and repurposed. This approach not only preserved valuable resources but also reduced waste and costs associated with new construction.
Key upgrades included the installation of advanced water, electrical, and climate control systems. These enhancements are crucial for maintaining optimal growing conditions in the new potted plant nursery. The integration of these systems into the existing structure involved careful planning and execution, ensuring compatibility with the greenhouse’s original framework.
Complex Connectivity Solutions
One of the most complex aspects of the project was connecting the newly revamped greenhouse to an adjacent facility. Technicians overcame this challenge by creating underground connections for heat and electrical links, encased in concrete for protection. Both greenhouses now share a Combined Heat and Power (CHP) system, which efficiently supplies heat and electricity while minimizing energy surplus.
Enduring Partnerships and Expertise
The successful completion of this project underscores the long-standing partnership between KP Holland and Royal Brinkman. Their collaboration, which dates back to the 1980s, has been characterized by mutual trust and shared expertise. Roy van der Knaap, Technical Director at KP Holland, highlights the depth of this relationship, noting that it began with his grandfather and father, who were early customers of Royal Brinkman.
Ben Peters, Technical Account Manager at Royal Brinkman, reflects on the project’s success: “Roy and I had numerous discussions to explore the best solutions within the constraints of the existing greenhouse. Our close collaboration was key to achieving the desired outcome.”
