Tomtech, the UK leader in greenhouse control systems, has been putting their technology to a new use, helping boost the circular economy in Kenya. More frequently found in UK and European greenhouses, Tomtech’s technology is helping control an anaerobic digestor which is turning waste into biofuel on one of Kenya’s largest flower farms.
“Though we’re more accustomed to helping create ideal growing conditions in greenhouses, our technology is just as adept at controlling other processes like anaerobic digestion” says Krzysztof Hernik, Managing Director of Tomtech.
Tomtech’s T200 control system is more frequently used within multi-zone greenhouses where it automatically alters heating, ventilation, irrigation, fertigation and other factors which affect growth. However, for the first time, the T200 has now been used to control the functions of an anaerobic digestor operated by Kenyan company Grants Bio-Tech. Anaerobic digestion is the process in which organic matter, such as animal or plant waste, is broken down via bacteria in an oxygen-free tank to produce biogas.
Grants Bio-Tech design, manufacture and install anaerobic digestors, which they state help create energy independence and a cleaner environment.
“Kenyan horticulture, particularly the cut flower industry, produces high levels of bio waste which can be a problem, but that also offers an opportunity for clean and sustainable energy where it’s needed most” says Paul Hodson, Director of Grants Bio-Tech.
“The Tomtech system has given us better, safer control of the digestion process and we are already seeing increased gas production as a result” adds Paul.
The anaerobic digestor has been installed at Bohemian Flower Farm, who have over 3,500 employees and is located near the town of Naivasha, a large town around 90km north west of the Kenyan capital of Nairobi. Kenya’s economy is heavily reliant on agriculture and horticulture which employs over 500,000 people, including around 100,000 on flower farms which produce flowers including roses, carnations and alstroemeria.
“Naturally, we jumped at the chance to support a project which helps create sustainable energy. The circular economy is increasingly important to developing communities which can benefit from renewable energy” concludes Krzysztof Hernik, Managing Director at Tomtech.