
Pumping
The pumping of irrigation water and the circulation of heating water are major costs in running a greenhouse.
Improvements in pump design, and most importantly in drive systems for motors, can make a big difference in running costs.
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Variable speed electric drives (VSDs) enable what are otherwise fixed speed motors to operate a range of speeds and torques from zero to 100%. They can give great process flexibility, reduce wear and tear on machines, and dramatically cut running costs.
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In this factsheet, Farm Energy Centre's Chris Plackett, and Steve Adams and Allen Langton from Warwick Horticultural Research International (HRI) highlight the benefits of good housekeeping — the first essential step in achieving efficient energy management.