In the fall of 2022, Ohio State University opened a new research greenhouse complex in Columbus, OH, USA. The research center is called the Controlled Environment Agriculture Research Complex and is part of OSU’s College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences. The greenhouse is one of the largest and most high-tech CEA research spaces in the U.S., using emerging technologies to control light, humidity, temperature, nutrients and other environmental factors for crop production.

Many sections within the greenhouse research center were designed to replicate the climate and environment of a real-world production setting. These sections utilize a double screen combination of Harmony 2047 FR on top and Obscura 9950 FR W on the bottom. This unique screen combination is known as PARperfect, a solution offered by Svensson that allows growers to adjust light levels anywhere from 20% to 100%.

PARperfect is designed to function similarly to a light dimmer, providing advanced control over the light entering the greenhouse. This specific screen combination is used for light abatement and energy savings. To further support the PARperfect setup, Priva donated the climate computer with the required PAR module in the software.

The greenhouse is being used for research and development led by Dr. Chieri Kubota, a CEA researcher who conducts research related to berry production in controlled environments and is a student of Plant Empowerment. Research conducted at the greenhouse will include genetic and breeding programs.

The four production sections within the greenhouse are 460 m² each, have a 7.5 m gutter height, supplemental lighting and PARperfect screens. Within these sections, there are gutters for vine crops, strawberries and hydroponic greens. Additionally, there are eight research rooms with a shorter gutter height of approximately 4 m, intended for genetics and plant breeding research. These rooms feature supplemental lighting, Priva controls and two screens — Luxous and an open-structure shade screen.

“Research and development is essential to addressing the challenges we currently see in global food supply chains and, overall, building a stronger horticulture industry,” says Matt Bonavita, president of Svensson North America. “Svensson is committed to supporting universities and research centers,” Bonavita continues. “As a partner, we strive to do our part by providing the tools and resources needed to conduct the important research that moves our industry forward. We are proud to contribute to the Controlled Environment Agriculture Research Complex at Ohio State University.”