Belgian grower Geert Mertens does see long-term opportunities for energy collaboration in the region. It could allow Mertens Floristry to replace its oil-based heating with a more sustainable alternative. It could allow Mertens Floristry to replace its oil-based heating with a more sustainable alternative. “In 2030, our environmental permit will expire, and we are looking for an alternative heating source."
Its 2.5 hectares of greenhouse ornamentals and 10 hectares of outdoor chrysanthemums make Bloemisterij Mertens in Minderhout, located near the Dutch border and the city of Breda, the odd one out in the area. After all, the Noorderkempen region is best known for its large, intensive livestock farms run by young entrepreneurs.
In recent years, the region made the agricultural news with Halnet, an initiative by farmers and citizens to harvest energy locally. Its initiators seek to share the surplus energy generated on farms with their neighbours. This has led to solar panels being placed on farms, a battery being installed and a blueberry plot being equipped with agrivoltaics. Besides being a revenue model, this should also result in closer ties between citizens and farmers.
