UNIL UNIVERSITY

SWITZERLAND Lausanne - 2022

Unique, ground-breaking research

Department of Plant Molecular Biology (DBMV)

The Department of Plant Molecular Biology (DBMV) aims to help address the challenges humanity will face over the next century, in particular that of feeding a population that will grow from 6.5 to 9 billion people by 2050 in a context of global warming.

Advances in understanding the fundamental aspects of plant molecular biology will be essential to develop agricultural production that is suited to renewable energy sources and respectful of the environment.

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UNIL Lausanne: DBMV greenhouse lit with F.O.G horticultural LEDs

FUTURE OF GROW

UNIL UNIVERSITY

LAUSANNE, SWITZERLAND

2022

Challenges & objectives

Most of the 360 HPS lamps currently installed in the university’s greenhouses are faulty. These lamps are not designed to withstand the misting system, which compromises their performance and durability.

The project aims to identify an alternative that meets the growers’ requirements while adapting to the technical constraints.

Consumption

Consumption

Lower energy consumption

Water resistance

Water resistance

Lighting suited to humid areas and misting

Compatibility

Compatibility

Adaptation to the SIEMENS platform, the current mountings and the existing wiring

Results

A smart, state-of-the-art installation

-50 %

-50 %Energy

More than 50% reduction in energy consumption

Improved

Improvedspectrum

Same light level maintained

Total

TotalControl

Lighting dimming controlled by light sensors

Far more than an optimisationa tailored approach

As part of this project, we implemented a twofold optimisation of energy consumption:

Optimisation 1

Optimisation 1

Replacement of 360 HPS lamps of 400 W with 120 LED lights of 600 W, a 50% saving, i.e. 72 kW, while guaranteeing the same lighting performance as the previous luminaires.

Optimisation 2

Optimisation 2

Integration of PAR light sensors for intelligent dimming of the grow lights with the existing Siemens controller.

Project video

Each greenhouse was fitted with two PAR light sensors, providing precise lighting control for two separate zones (left side and right side).

This configuration makes it possible to adjust light levels by varying the intensity of the grow lights according to specific programmed requirements and the lack of sunlight.

To ensure full compatibility with the existing infrastructure and SIEMENS controllers, we designed a custom solution. This included developing UV-resistant drivers, brackets, cables and click connectors for quick, flexible installation.

The design is intended to simplify long-term maintenance, with components that are all individually replaceable. At F.O.G, every part of our grow lights can be replaced in the event of a failure, making for an economical and sustainable solution. This approach allows growers to carry out the work themselves, reducing maintenance costs while ensuring optimal use over the long term.

With F.O.G, benefit from an innovative solution, custom-designed to meet the requirements of your infrastructure, while making your energy consumption as efficient as possible.