Artificial lighting system for greenhouses

Abstract

The role of light in plant growth is vital. Current technology allows up to 15% increase exploitation of the plants through the additional artificial light, and its proper management should allow the maximum benefits at the best price. In this report, available options in the market and their advantages and disadvantages are reviewed and always following the existing regulations. The high pressure sodium lamps seem to be the most suitable for the features they offer and, electronic control, despite some minor disadvantages compared to electromagnetic control and being relatively new, provides a truly optimal performance, making possible also its telemanagement with the help of new technologies. LED lights have significant future potential for use in horticultural applications since it should be possible to design these to provide precisely specified spectral outputs. However, significant advances are still needed before they can be used widely for supplementary and photoperiod lighting.