Greenhouse farming consumes a lot of energy. High energy prices are therefore worrying horticulturists, says Boerenbond. For example, a quarter of companies would consider temporarily shutting down or leaving the conservatory partially empty. Illuminated crops, such as tomato growing, are unlikely to be there this winter, according to the agricultural organization. There will be tomatoes in stores, Boerenbond says, but they will come from abroad.
4,200 people work in greenhouse horticulture. Boerenbond estimates that a quarter to 30 percent could become temporarily unemployed and that 10 to 15 percent could even be fired.
If cultivation is reduced, this could also affect energy production, Boerenbond warns. For example, greenhouses often operate with combined heat and electricity. These are gas systems that emit heat to greenhouses, but at the same time also produce electricity. According to the organization, the sector therefore produces energy for around 630,000 households. A third of these are in danger of falling, it seems.
Boerenbond hopes that the government’s measures still manage to keep the problems within limits. Cultivators are now busy making their plans and need clarity, it seems. The organization therefore calls for the Flemish government to urgently issue a so-called ‘ban’ so that companies that voluntarily consume less gas receive compensation.
