On 14 November, Qualily welcomed 70 vendor managers from Dutch grid operator Stedin. For many of them, it was their first time inside a greenhouse—despite the crucial role horticulture plays in the electricity grid. Our sector actively helps balance the grid: by using extra energy during surplus moments (switching on lights) and generating energy during shortages (activating CHP units).
You can think of the electricity grid like a five-lane highway—during rush hour, it gets congested. This is what we call grid congestion. One way to solve this is by widening the road (adding capacity), but another is to use the existing lanes more efficiently. This is where greenhouse horticulture can make a difference, with its ability to adjust electricity usage flexibly. But how can the energy market encourage this flexibility? For example, by offering discounts on contracted capacity. The event sparked valuable discussions and fresh ideas around these questions.
Jacco Vooijs, chairman of Glastuinbouw Westland, gave an inspiring presentation on Westland’s smart geothermal network. This was followed by a tour of our greenhouse, giving guests a better understanding of the challenges and needs of horticultural businesses.
Looking back, it was a successful event where important seeds were planted—for smarter energy use and stronger collaboration in the future!
