“Low-energy tomato production can be achieved without compromising yield or quality, provided a holistic cultivation approach is applied”

Eindhoven, the Netherlands – Recent research by Signify, Grodan and its partners Ridder, Normec Groen Agro Control, Wireless Value, Ammerlaan and BASF demonstrates that low-energy tomato production can be achieved without compromising yield or quality, provided a holistic cultivation approach is applied. The second year of the trial delivered:

• A yield of 24 kg/m², a Brix value of 9.32, and an average fruit size of 12.20 g.
• Lower gas consumption through reduced reliance on the rail pipe heating system.
• An additional 2% reduction in electricity costs by dynamically controlling LED lighting, switching off less energy-efficient colors when possible.
• Precise control over the leaf area index (LAI) through the use of low-nitrate feeding.
• Improved nutrient uptake and higher Brix levels thanks to optimized feed recipes with adjusted ratios of potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), and calcium (Ca).
• Exceptionally stable greenhouse climate conditions enabled by an advanced dehumidification system, resulting in consistent crop growth and development.

Year 2: pushing the boundaries of low-energy cultivation

Building on strong first-year results, year two aimed to reduce heat input while improving yield, stability, and fruit quality. Two areas were focused on: lighting and climate control, and irrigation and nutrient management. For lighting and climate, less efficient LED colors were dimmed when unnecessary, boosting energy efficiency, while advanced thermal screens reduced energy use yet maintained stable conditions. In irrigation and nutrients, dehumidification helped balance growth and leaf area during the LED-lit winter, while refined watering and nutrient strategies preserved both fruit size and quality.

Shaping the future of energy-efficient growing
These results confirm that low-energy cultivation is not only technically feasible but also offers a clear pathway to reducing energy costs and greenhouse gas consumption, while maintaining product quality and yield. By combining dynamic lighting strategies, refined nutrient management, and advanced climate control, growers are equipped with practical tools to meet both sustainability and profitability goals.

Download the Full Whitepaper
The full report is available for download and provides detailed insights into the methods, results, and next steps in this groundbreaking research.

For further information, please contact:

Philips horticulture LED solutions by Signify

Daniela Damoiseaux – Global Marcom Manager

For further information, please contact:

Philips horticulture LED solutions by Signify

Daniela Damoiseaux – global marcom manager

Tel: +316 40578311

E-mail:Daniela.damoiseaux@signify.com

About Signify

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT) is the world leader in lighting for professionals and consumers and lighting for the Internet of Things. Our Philips products, Interact connected lighting systems and data-enabled services, deliver business value and transform life in homes, buildings and public spaces. In 2021, we had sales of EUR 6.9 billion, approximately 37,000 employees and a presence in over 70 countries. We unlock the extraordinary potential of light for brighter lives and a better world. We achieved carbon neutrality in 2020, have been in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index since our IPO for six consecutive years and were named Industry Leader in 2017, 2018 and 2019. News from Signify is located at the Newsroom, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram. Information for investors can be found on the Investor Relations page.

New Zealand – Australian Contact:

Aart Slobbe

Account Manager Horticulture LED Solutions

+ 61 448 881 338

Email  aart.slobbe@signify.com  

Suite 022, 44 Lakeview Drive

Scoresby, VIC 3179, Australia

About Signify

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT) is the world leader in lighting for professionals and consumers and lighting for the Internet of Things. Our Philips products, Interact connected lighting systems and data-enabled services, deliver business value and transform life in homes, buildings and public spaces. With 2020 sales of EUR 6.5 billion, we have approximately 38,000 employees and are present in over 70 countries. We unlock the extraordinary potential of light with smart lighting solutions that improve quality of life, and by working towards a sustainable future. We became a carbon-neutral company in 2020, since our stock market listing, we have been in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index for four years in a row and were named Industry Leader in 2017, 2018 and 2019. News from Signify is located at the Newsroom, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram. Information for investors can be found on the Investor Relations page.

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