The Problem

A greenhouse can be a wonderful thing. It is a place to grow local, fresh food year-round, when outdoor conditions do not allow. However, most greenhouses require huge amounts of fossil fuel energy to maintain suitable temperatures for growth. This is because they use all glass or clear plastic structures, which provide little to no insulation.

Our Approach

At Ceres, we approach greenhouse design differently. We limit the area of glazing, and create an energy efficient structure. By using smart green building design, we aim to create greenhouses that are:

• Innovative
• Energy Efficient
• Elegant
• and Cost-Effective

History

Ceres grew out a grant-funded research greenhouse at Cure Organic Farm in Boulder County, CO. Growing fruiting tomatoes in the middle of winter with only a few kWh of electricity, the Cure project has proven that by using smart building design, we can grow food year-round without non-renewable sources of energy. Cure has also allowed us to collect data and monitor the greenhouses’ performance.