Sustainable transformation for resilient research
Research requires reliable, energy-efficient infrastructure – especially at an institute like the IGZ, which investigates plant-based systems for sustainable horticulture. To better prepare for rising energy costs and the challenges of climate change, the IGZ implemented a comprehensive package of measures last year. At the heart of these efforts were the renovation and modernisation of the technical infrastructure – in particular, the greenhouses, climate chambers, cooling systems and energy supply. These upgrades were made possible through funding of approximately 4 million euros, which the IGZ received as part of the Brandenburg state programme “Strengthening Energy Resilience and Ensuring the Continuity of Research Operations at Non-University Research Institutions”.
During a staff tour, Thomas Runge, Head of the Infrastructure Core Facility, provided an overview of the many innovations. On this occasion, Administrative Director Markus Randig acknowledged the commitment shown in implementing the investment project: “This project was a challenge not only due to its scale – maintaining ongoing research operations in parallel required a high degree of coordination and flexibility from everyone involved.” He especially thanked Thomas Runge, Torsten Krüger (procurement) and Rainer Franke (Head of Finance) and their respective teams for their tremendous efforts.
Investing in modern infrastructure
The centrepiece of the measures was the energy-efficient modernisation of greenhouses and climate chambers. For instance, 16 cabins in the compartment greenhouse were fitted with LED lighting, which not only provides better light quality for the plants but also enables significant electricity savings. The replacement and upgrade of outdated climate cabinets and chambers with energy-efficient LED technology and more environmentally friendly refrigerants are also helping to reduce energy consumption. At the same time, the upgrades enhance operational reliability – a key factor for continuous research at IGZ.
The greenhouse control systems were completely overhauled. With state-of-the-art hardware and software, temperature, lighting and humidity can now be controlled more precisely and in a more resource-efficient way. In addition, defective vegetation heating units were replaced; the new systems provide heat exactly where the plants need it – without having to heat the entire greenhouse.
Another major element was the renovation of roof and façade surfaces, as well as the installation of a photovoltaic system with a maximum capacity of 50 kWp on the now-insulated roof of the heating and workshop building. New windows, external wall insulation and an improved roof structure significantly reduce heat loss.
In the greenhouse area, the roof was completely replaced over a surface of around 2,300 m². The old single glazing was substituted with modern twin-wall sheets, and new energy screens help to further minimise heat loss.
Strengthening research under controlled conditions
Through the combination of technical and structural measures, the IGZ is now able to further expand its research into resource-efficient plant production under controlled climate conditions. At the same time, the institute is becoming less dependent on external energy price fluctuations.
Leading the tour through the upgraded facilities, Thomas Runge emphasised: “For a research institute like the IGZ, a reliable and energy-efficient infrastructure is not a luxury – it’s essential. These new systems not only help us reduce costs, but also enable us to pursue our scientific questions with even greater precision.”
