New polycarbonate roofing material moves greenhouses to energy independence

26 January 2006

The greenhouse industry in the Netherlands is using GE Plastics' new Lexan™ ZigZag™ sheet polycarbonate (PC) roofing material to move from a consumer of fossil fuel to a producer of solar energy. Hydro Huisman, a leading hydroculture company in Huissen, is constructing the first greenhouse that will produce more energy than it uses. Lexan ZigZag sheet double-wall roofing panels provide higher light transmission than single glass, and insulation similar to multiwall glass or PC sheet. These energy-efficient properties will enable approximately two-thirds of the heat generated in the greenhouse to be sold as surplus.

In the Netherlands, greenhouses are currently among the largest consumers of fossil fuel (natural gas). Concerned about the environmental implications and costs, the Dutch greenhouse industry is looking for a way to free itself from energy dependence. With an experimental widespan greenhouse constructed using GE's new Lexan ZigZag sheet double-wall PC roofing panels, Dutch horticulturalist firm Hydro Huisman aims to turn energy consumption into energy production. According to GE, Lexan ZigZag sheet roofing raises light transmission levels above those of single glass, especially during non-peak hours/seasons, while ensuring outstanding insulation to retain heat. The material is also claimed to be lighter weight than glass, have excellent flame retardancy and is easy to install.