Drone thermal imaging helps Dutch greenhouse growers cut energy losses

With gas prices rising again and energy costs increasing across the board, greenhouse growers in the Netherlands are once more scrutinizing their operational expenses. Following the major investments made in response to the 2021/2022 energy crisis, many growers assume their facilities are in good shape. According to John Torenstra of HS Tuinbouw Service, however, significant gains can still be made through proper maintenance — even in newly built greenhouses. His company conducts drone inspections using thermal imaging cameras, and the results speak for themselves.

The Naaldwijk-based greenhouse maintenance specialist has had a certified drone pilot on staff for some time. This makes it possible to fly above greenhouse structures with a thermal imaging camera, producing footage that reveals exactly where heat is escaping. Common causes include broken panes, improperly closing screen cloths, and faulty ventilation windows.

“After the drone flight, we carry out an analysis and compile a report,” says Torenstra. “From there, we can help growers with targeted maintenance or renovation, all through a single point of contact.”

The use of drone-mounted thermal cameras has significantly improved the inspection process. “In the past, we would walk across the greenhouse roof, move through the gutters, or carry out inspections from the inside using a pipe rail trolley. Now the drone does the work. It’s very efficient. After a test run, the drone flies automatically using GPS coordinates.”

The system uses self-learning software. “Because we have been doing this for years, the drone has become well-calibrated to what needs attention.” In consultation with the client, HS Tuinbouw Service determines which defects require immediate action and which can be scheduled for a later date. “We can set the drone to report only cracks in panes larger than ten centimetres, for example.”

Preventive maintenance has long been central to HS Tuinbouw Service’s approach. “A well-maintained greenhouse saves money,” Torenstra emphasises. Pointing to thermal inspection images, he adds: “You don’t need advanced mathematics to see that something needs to be done there.”

The period leading into summer is an opportune time for preventive maintenance work. To carry out both routine and large-scale maintenance, the company has its own trained personnel and a specialised fleet of equipment. Machine rental is also now available through HS Materieel Verhuur, a related operation launched this year.

For more information:
HS Tuinbouw Service B.V.
Slotenmakerstraat 15
2672 GC Naaldwijk
Tel.: +31 (0)174 501368
[email protected]
www.hstuinbouwservice.nl