For twenty years, research, innovation, and practical application have come together at the Delphy Improvement Centre. Svensson Netherlands has been involved from the very beginning. For Paul Arkesteijn, Climate & Energy Specialist at Svensson, this long-standing partnership is particularly valuable because knowledge does not simply remain on paper. New ideas are tested, discussed with growers, and ultimately translated into practical solutions. 

Leading the way—and proving it

Paul has been a regular at the Improvement Centre for seventeen years now. During that time, he has witnessed a significant shift in how greenhouse climate is approached. A prime example is the use of double energy screens. What was once unconventional was thoroughly tested in trials at Delphy. “We started with double transparent screens in bell pepper cultivation, followed by cucumbers, and eventually tomatoes as well. The trials demonstrated that it was entirely feasible.” Practical adoption followed—first in bell peppers and cucumbers, and—partly driven by the energy crisis—increasingly in tomato cultivation as well. 

According to Paul, this is precisely where the strength of research lies. “You can look ahead to what the sector will need in the future. Sometimes, research stays a few years ahead of the market—but when the time is right, the knowledge is already there.”

From energy conservation to greenhouse climate

The issues at hand have since broadened in scope. While energy conservation remains important, the focus is increasingly shifting toward what this means for the crop. For instance, using screens more frequently and reducing heat input require new approaches to actively managing the greenhouse climate and keeping the crop healthy.

Svensson and Delphy also collaborate on research in this area. For instance, ClimaFlow is being used in trials involving various crops to gain a better understanding of vertical air movement and the microclimate. “You could keep a screen closed for longer and use less energy, but ultimately, you don’t want to compromise on production or quality. We are constantly seeking that balance.”

Growers at the table

Growers play a key role in the steering committees for these trials. They follow developments, ask questions, and share their own experiences. For Paul, this interaction is particularly valuable. “You hear firsthand what a grower thinks. You can then incorporate that practical knowledge into the development of products and advisory services.” Some growers from these steering groups are often among the first to test a new application at their own operations. In this way, knowledge spreads further through peer networks and study groups.

Knowledge in constant motion

For Paul, the real strength lies in the excellent, long-standing partnership. “Communication is direct. We are involved in new trials from an early stage, contribute our own ideas, and remain closely engaged throughout the research process.” This open collaboration ensures a continuous, two-way flow of knowledge and ideas. Delphy and Svensson have successfully worked together for twenty years—and as far as Paul is concerned, that will continue for the foreseeable future.