Greenhouse Energy Retrofit Investment by the Aid of Dynamic Simulations

Greenhouses consume a large amount of energy to cover heating/cooling and ventilation energy needs so as to regulate the appropriate indoor environment for the cultivation growth. The sufficient control and energy management of the greenhouse installations can significantly reduce the energy consumption during the day. The present work analyzes a case study of transformation of a small typical greenhouse installation for tomato cultivation into a zero-energy one. The energy retrofit investment incorporates greenhouse construction renovation works, renewable energy sources utilization and energy management systems installation for controlling the indoor microclimate environment, based on dynamic simulation model analysis. Last, the proposed energy retrofit investment is examined in terms of sustainability, regarding Life Cycle Cost Analysis and environmental impact factors, showing a decrease of 96% in the annual operating costs compared to the conventional greenhouse.