De Tuindershoek pepper greenhouse expands using double energy screens

MARCH 2022

In 2020, De Tuindershoek expanded its greenhouse facilities by an additional 7 hectares, effectively doubling its paprika cultivation area. The new greenhouse brought modern technology and, of course, new climate screens. Paprika grower Paul Kaashoek chose two layers of Luxous 1147 FR energy screens from Svensson for the installation. Peter Dekker Installaties (PDI) installed the climate screens using a slip-in system.

Paul and his brother André have been growing peppers in IJsselmuiden since 2004. They previously operated in Moerkapelle and Waddinxveen before relocating and expanding their operation.

When asked why he chose a double screen installation with Luxous 1147 FR, Paul explains:
“As much light as possible. It is currently the brightest screen. And that is good for pepper cultivation.”

Transparent and energy-saving

The Luxous 1147 FR is not only transparent but also energy-saving. Paul describes how the screens perform:
“Because the screen lets so much light through, we can leave it closed for longer and still save as much energy as possible.”

Paul conducted thorough research into comparable options before making his decision: “The amount of light in relation to the energy you save is very favorable. Better than competitors offer. Also, Svensson has a lot of experience and is always progressive as a leader. We are happy to go along with that.”

Additional options for optimal use

Jeroen de Jonge, responsible for sales at PDI, helped the Kaashoek brothers select the screen installations. He says:
“We were allowed to participate in the tender with several other installers. Paul and André had engaged a consultancy to supervise the new construction.”

To better understand the brothers’ needs and expectations, Jeroen took Paul to visit another pepper grower where PDI had applied innovative screen installation techniques that could also be relevant for De Tuindershoek. In hindsight, this proved successful.
“When we got the contract, this included all the options I had shown,” Jeroen says, referring to features such as the slip-in system and axle protection.

Successful collaboration and promising screens

Originally, the plan was to build 3.5 hectares of new greenhouse, but when an adjacent 3.5-hectare plot became available after construction had begun, the project expanded to the full 7 hectares in the same timeframe. This was accomplished despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jeroen reflects on the collaboration: “They are very nice people to work with. I like their sobriety and honesty. They always remain calm.”

The new greenhouse was completed at the end of 2020, and the first paprika plants were planted just before the holidays. Paul proudly describes the early results:
“We planted everything just before the holidays. We are now finishing things up.” And how do the climate screens perform?

“That looks very promising. You can see how much light comes through the screen when the sun is shining in the middle of winter.”