Dutch lighting giant Philips Lighting recently completed installation of its GreenPower LED Production Modules at Ecobain Gardens, the largest commercial vertical farm operation in Canada. Philips said by upgrading the fluorescent lighting previously used in the facility to LED, the company is helping the vertical farming pioneer to produce at commercial scale, accelerate growing cycles and grow healthier, more consistent plants, while saving up to $30,000 Canadian in energy costs per year.
Ecobain Gardens in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, is producing both organic and non-organic, nutrient-rich herbs and microgreens in a fully controlled indoor facility. The operation was established in 2013 and is the first commercial vertical farming operation in Saskatchewan. The facility produces 18,000 pounds of produce each year in less than 1,400 square feet. Its farming method uses up to 98 percent less water, zero harmful chemicals or pesticides and now has the newest energy-efficient LED lighting available from Philips Lighting.
“Our goal is to grow our operation to a scale where we can make a difference to the people of our community who need quality nutrition, no matter their economic standing or geographical location,” said Brian Bain, Cofounder and CEO of Ecobain Gardens “The innovative LED products provided by Philips Lighting are helping us build cost effective, smart, productive farms to safely service this massive void we have in our food system. Our passion for growing plants and providing the best possible product, in unique and alternative ways, has helped shape our business and perspective on farming.”