Water Valley Greenhouse Project

Nestled in the scenic expanses of Water Valley, Alberta, the Water Valley Greenhouse Project emerges as a groundbreaking venture into sustainable agriculture. This innovative project, initiated in the spring of last year and set to be completed with the installation and commissioning of solar thermal tubes this spring, represents our foray into large-scale greenhouse projects designed for year-round operation.

Harnessing Solar Power for Greenhouse Heating

At the heart of this project are 12 Solar Thermal Collectors, generating 28 Kilowatts or 72,000 BTU per hour, dedicated to preheating three large water tanks housed within a shipping container. This system is ingeniously integrated with an in-floor heating system installed throughout the greenhouse, ensuring optimal growing conditions regardless of the external weather. The design epitomizes an off-grid heating solution, enabling the greenhouse to operate independently of traditional energy sources.

Innovative Design and Installation

The solar collectors are strategically mounted atop a robust walkway and structure at a 60° angle, optimizing winter energy capture while minimizing summer heat intake, thus protecting the system from snow and hail. The 2400-liter hot water tanks, coupled with an external heat exchanger, efficiently distribute warmth to the greenhouse's in-floor heating system. Additionally, a solar off-grid bypass system, including a 100Watt solar electric PV panel and DC pumps, has been incorporated to ensure continuous operation during power outages.

Anticipation and Collaboration

The anticipation builds as we approach the spring commissioning of this system. The client, Eastern Slopes Rangeland Seeds, shares our excitement for the potential of this sustainable greenhouse model. Their cooperation has been invaluable, allowing us to design and implement one of our first fully customized solar greenhouse systems.

This project has been a collaborative effort, with Off Grid Heating leading the design and installation process, supported by the expertise of Merit Mechanical. Together, we have navigated the challenges of creating a system that not only meets but exceeds the expectations for sustainable agricultural practices.

Looking Forward

The Water Valley Greenhouse Project stands as a testament to the potential of integrating renewable energy solutions into agriculture. It underscores our commitment to pioneering sustainable practices that benefit our clients and the planet. As we move forward, we eagerly anticipate showcasing the operational system, demonstrating the viability of year-round, off-grid greenhouses as a model for the future of agriculture.

This initiative is more than just a project; it's a step towards redefining what's possible in sustainable agriculture, promising a greener, more self-sufficient future for greenhouse operations. We look forward to sharing the success and learnings from the Water Valley Greenhouse Project with our clients and the broader community, inspiring further innovation in the realm of renewable energy and agriculture.