Advantages of Energy-saving Technology and Negative Impact of Rising Energy Prices

Case Study of Greenhouse Winter–Spring Strawberries in Nasushiobara City, Tochigi

Abstract

This study demonstrates the advantages of reducing heating costs, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and crude oil consumption using energy-saving systems and the negative impacts of rising energy prices in the cultivation of greenhouse winter–spring strawberries in Nasushiobara City, in Tochigi.

We gained three insights in this case study. First, farmers benefited from reduced energy consumption. Second, GHG emissions and crude oil consumption reduced when farmers used a heat pump and circulation fans and decreased the operation time of heavy oil-heating systems. Thus, the use of energy-saving technology provides environmental benefits; however, a rise in energy costs can burden farmers financially.