Biobest representatives attend official opening of state-of-the-art photovoltaic greenhouse in Southern France

RIANS, France: A delegation of biocontrols supplier Biobest attended the official opening of Les Cagettes de Noel, a state-of-the-art photovoltaic greenhouse, where beneficial insects and hives are being employed to produce quality organic fruit and vegetables.  

Situated in the small village of Rians, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region in south-eastern France, the company grows 1.5 hectares of organic vegetable crops in open fields and its high-tech photovoltaic greenhouse.

“Les Cagettes de Noël produces a diverse range of high-quality fruit and vegetable crops from potatoes, onions, beans and asparagus to strawberries, courgettes and tomatoes,” explains Biobest’s Angela Camelo. “Noël Arènes is a customer of Elliot Burlats of Racine Saint Maximin – our distributor in the region.”

“While providing employment for local people, this innovative project uses photovoltaic cells on the greenhouse roof – which convert thermal energy in electricity,” explains Angela. “Powering the greenhouse, it also generates sufficient electricity for more than 200 people – while consuming less water and nitrogen than a conventional greenhouse.”

“Several different crops are grown in a single greenhouse. The IPM programme – encompassing products including Macrolophus-System, Swirskii-Breeding-System, Aphidius-System and Phytoseiulus-System – together with the installation of our bumblebee hives has ensured the crops are well pollinated and protected against a range of pests. In its first season we have had zero phytosanitary issues.”

“As a result, Noël has harvested a bountiful supply of 100% organic vegetables and fruits.”

“We were delighted to participate in this inauguration event and look forward to working closely with Noël, Elliot and Racine Saint Maximin in the future to implement IPM programmes and provide the technical support necessary for the continuing success of this inspiring project.”