Original glass greenhouse in Spain still using Svensson screen after 21 years
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- Greenhouse:
- Agrosol Export farm
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- Location:
- Almeria, Spain
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- Crop:
- Peppers, Cherry Tomato
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- Challenge:
- Summer shade and winter energy saving
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- Solution:
- Harmony 3845
APRIL 2021
At the Agrosol Export farm in the province of Almería, Spain, one of the first glass greenhouses ever built in the country continues to operate with a functional Svensson climate screen more than two decades after installation. The greenhouse stands as an early example of advanced protected cultivation in southern Spain and highlights the long service life of climate screen technology.
The farm was established in 2000 and consists of 10 hectares of glass greenhouse, divided into two sections of five hectares each. From the start, the greenhouse was equipped with a Svensson energy-saving screen, which at the time was advanced technology and largely unfamiliar in the region. The facility was originally designed for California pepper production and included hot water tube rail heating and carbon dioxide fertilization.
Over the years, cropping strategies evolved in response to market demand. In addition to California peppers, the greenhouse has also produced Italian peppers and specialty cherry tomatoes. Throughout these changes, the climate screen continued to play a central role in managing the greenhouse environment.
According to Agrosol Export, the screen has delivered reliable performance for more than 21 years, contributing to both energy savings and shading. In spring, the screen is used to limit excess radiation. During winter, it is closed from sunset until early morning to retain heat. Growers report temperature differences of up to 4 °C without active heating, highlighting the insulating effect of the screen.
During a technical review by Svensson’s Spanish consulting team, the original screen was identified as a Svensson XLS 14 1:14 thermal aluminum screen.
Although the screen model is no longer part of the current product range, its closest modern equivalent is Harmony 3845, which reflects advances in materials and manufacturing developed over the past two decades.
While the screen remains operational, components have gradually worn after years of continuous use. Repairs were carried out when needed, but replacement is now planned after more than 20 years of service. The long operational lifetime is viewed by the grower as a strong indicator of the durability and value of climate screen investment.
Agrosol Export continues to work closely with Svensson’s local team and values the ongoing technical support and regular follow-up, which have helped optimize screen use throughout the life of the greenhouse.
