In order to fully evaluate the potential of our innovative technology for vertical farming and greenhouses, this project has undertaken several key steps:
- We have benchmarked competing solutions.
- We have identified the specific requirements of the application, with support from our partner end-user, Crocus Labs GmbH (www.crocuslabs.com).
- We have defined an optimized solution, rooted in the power electronics technologies developed in the Super-HEART project, which could be used as a benchmark for assessing market potential.
The Super-HEART technology is a power electronics building block consisting in an integrated, isolated, multiport converter. Our scalable approach allows for power conversion over a wide power range, each cell having rating from a few hundred watts to hundreds of kilowatts.
The project has showcased the value and versatility of our multiport converter technology across various use scenarios related to the energy supply of vertical farms and greenhouses.
In centralized power distribution networks, the Super-HEART technology has proven to outperform conventional methods of interconnecting energy sources such as renewable generation, energy storage (like battery-based systems), the grid, and the load-farm. This enables users to optimally utilise their on-site green energy production while ensuring reliable power delivery to the farm. The integrated design of our converter guarantees high round-trip efficiency in a minimal footprint -- with high availability.
For distributed power distribution networks, the Super-HEART technology also offers a significant advantage, as it can independently supply various lighting sources, granting users complete control over the lighting profile (color, intensity, and rapid dynamic control). Our technology not only fulfills practical needs but also provides a commercial edge in the growing vertical farming industry.
