The future of supplemental lighting discussed at LichtEvent in the Netherlands
Source: VFD.com
As we provide the news for free, we are relying on revenues from our banners. Political proposals are pushing up costs, while geopolitical tensions continue to drive energy prices higher.
Against this backdrop, the annual LichtEvent in Bleiswijk raised a key question: does supplemental lighting in the Netherlands have a future? The LichtEvent, now in its seventh edition, has for several years drawn growers and technology partners to Bleiswijk to keep abreast of the latest research findings.
Over the years, the event's focus has shifted from a heavy emphasis on light spectrum to a broader interest in topics such as humidity management and heat distribution under LED lighting. With many research questions still open, the LichtEvent remains a relevant forum — and the organizers confirm it will return.
Why this matters: For operators, the real question is whether the sensing, control, or data layer creates faster and better decisions. The facilities that win are the ones that turn visibility into tighter control and tighter control into better outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does LED fixture selection matter in controlled environment agriculture?
Lighting decisions affect both crop performance and energy intensity. Fixture efficiency, spectral control, and placement all influence how much value a facility gets from every kilowatt-hour.
What should growers evaluate before adopting new LED systems?
Growers should look at fixture efficiency, controllability, crop-specific use case, integration with existing controls, and the operational payback period instead of treating lighting as a standalone hardware purchase.
