A Singapore agtech firm is targeting global greenhouse growth, capitalizing on rising demand driven by sustainability and what it sees as advantages over vertical farming. MPW Technologies developed a wavelength-optimized solar energy to achieve more efficient and greener agricultural practices.
At the core of the company is its patented VertSol technology, which downshifts green wavelengths to red to enhance photosynthesis while generating solar energy to power the greenhouse to significantly reduce energy costs. "Instead of using extra electricity to convert into red and blue photons, you're generating green electricity directly to power the greenhouse," said chief executive Grace Ma.
The company's primary market is China, where it has worked with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (MARA) on a pilot project in Hebei.
"We started this pilot in 2016 and it's about 4,000 square metres. It's still in very good operational conditions and has managed to grow tomatoes, watermelons, and strawberries," said Ma. While the company will continue to focus on its business in China, it is also looking to expand internationally as demand for greenhouse rises.
Read more at AgTech Navigator
