Optimization of Greenhouse Production: Energy Simulation and Strategic Planning for Off-Peak Market Periods

This study presents the optimization of strawberry, pepper, and tomato production in a greenhouse located in the region of Kenitra, Morocco. The objective is to reduce energy needs and increase revenues through better planning of production periods. A simulation was conducted using the TRNSYS software to estimate the heating and cooling needs of the greenhouse, and heatmaps were developed to identify the optimal production periods.The results show that total energy needs can be reduced from 180,000 kWh to 63,000 kWh by optimizing the cultivation periods. The heatmaps helped identify the periods when crops can be produced with minimal energy costs while maximizing sales prices. These optimization strategies have demonstrated their potential to reduce energy costs while increasing revenues. The combination of energy simulation, heatmaps, and precise planning allows for more efficient resource use and a significant improvement in profitability.