How can greenhouse growers reduce their dependence on fossil fuels while keeping energy costs under control? RE-Greenhouse is helping growers explore their options. Following a successful first application round with 30 candidates, the project has launched its second and final voucher call. Greenhouse growers and local authorities can apply until 1 December 2026.
Greenhouse production is highly efficient in terms of yields, water consumption and the use of plant protection products. However, it also requires considerable amounts of energy. Fluctuating fossil fuel prices make it increasingly difficult for growers to predict their energy costs and plan future investments. Renewable energy solutions offer opportunities to reduce this vulnerability, but choosing the right technology is not always straightforward.
30 applications from three countries
The first RE-Greenhouse voucher call, which ran from June to August 2026, attracted 30 applications from Belgium, France and Germany. Of these, 28 met the eligibility criteria, including one Belgian municipality.
The applications reflect the different stages of the energy transition across the greenhouse sector. Some growers are exploring alternatives to ageing heating systems or looking for ways to deal with rising energy costs. Others want to compare renewable energy technologies or assess the feasibility of projects that are already underway.
There are also differences between countries.
- In France, for example, the expiry of combined heat and power (CHP) contracts is encouraging greenhouse operators to reconsider their energy systems.
- In Germany, relatively few applicants have already started implementing energy transition projects.
Comparing renewable energy solutions
The RE-Greenhouse project supports growers in making informed decisions about their future energy supply. At the heart of this support is the RE-Greenhouse tool, which enables users to compare different energy solutions, including solar panels, district heating networks, wind power, heat pumps and electric boilers.
The tool considers the specific characteristics and location of each greenhouse. It provides insights into the amount of fossil fuel that could be replaced, the potential energy savings and the associated investment and operating costs.
This allows growers to compare the technical and economic performance of different solutions before deciding which options deserve further investigation.
Expert advice tailored to each greenhouse
Selected applicants receive practical support from RE-Greenhouse experts. The programme includes a visit to the greenhouse production site and two online meetings to discuss the results generated by the tool.
At the end of the programme, participants receive a report comparing the energy performance and costs of the solutions assessed. They also receive expert advice and an initial overview of the next steps towards implementation.
The results provide a valuable starting point for further technical and financial assessments before making an investment decision.
No detailed plans required
Growers do not need to have a fully developed energy transition project to participate.
The voucher programme is open to greenhouse plant producers who are considering renewable energy solutions, as well as those who are already working on specific projects.
In fact, RE-Greenhouse is looking for participants with different levels of experience and ambition. Their feedback will also help the project partners further develop and improve the RE-Greenhouse tool.
Local authorities with greenhouses within their boundaries are also eligible to apply.
Apply before 1 December 2026
The second and final RE-Greenhouse voucher call opened on 29 September and will close on 1 December 2026.
For greenhouse growers who want to explore renewable energy solutions, this is an opportunity to receive expert support and gain valuable insights into the technical and economic feasibility of their options.
Interested in participating? Read more about the voucher programme and the application procedure
About RE-Greenhouse
RE-Greenhouse is an international collaborative project funded through the Interreg North-West Europe programme. The project brings together partners from several European countries to develop solutions that help greenhouse horticulture businesses become more sustainable and less dependent on fossil fuels. Through demonstrations, pilot projects and the development of practical tools, RE-Greenhouse supports growers in their energy transition.
The project’s activities are made possible through financial support from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), provided through the Interreg North-West Europe programme.