Estimating Energy Needs for Climate-Controlled Greenhouses in Syria with a Software Tool

Amid the current conditions in Syria, the study of energy consumption within plastic greenhouses emerges as a fundamental element in the agricultural economy, especially in areas subject to extreme climate variations. With many thermal power stations ceasing operation due to conflicts and the diminishing sources of energy, understanding energy consumption becomes more urgent to enhance productivity and reduce costs. Successful management of protected agriculture requires in-depth knowledge of weather dynamics and the optimal environmental conditions for crops. To implement effective management of plastic greenhouses, it is essential to recognize how climatic fluctuations affect plant growth and production throughout the various seasons. Heating systems form a significant part of the costs in constructing plastic greenhouses, and deficiencies in these systems can lead to negative impacts on quality, quantity, duration of cultivation, and production volume. Therefore, accurately calculating heating costs is crucial for reducing operational expenses. This study included the development of a computer program to determine the heating needs of plastic greenhouses, considering various factors such as the geographical location of the greenhouse, crop type, covering materials, heating system used, and land area. The results showed that Syria needs 4.56 megawatts of energy for the greenhouses, with the Tartus Governorate consuming the largest share, with energy consumption rates in Tartus, Latakia, Homs, and Damascus countryside amounting to 3.6, 0.3, 0.51, and 0.19 megawatts, respectively. The crops of tomatoes, vegetables, strawberries, and tropical plants consumed 2.2, 1.66, 2.21, and 0.244 megawatts of energy, respectively. This study is an important step towards achieving sustainable and efficient agriculture that contributes to supporting the economy and protecting the environment in Syria.