Solar Energy as Part of Our Sustainable Vision
Peter Evers, co-owner of Bredefleur, shares how we invest in energy from our own rooftops and work toward a future-proof way of growing lilies.
Why did Bredefleur choose to invest so heavily in solar energy?
At Bredefleur, we want to contribute to a more sustainable future. Floriculture plays a central role in society and has a significant impact, so we feel a responsibility. It also just makes sense. If you have the rooftop space and a high energy demand, why not generate your own energy? It's an investment in both the environment and our operations.
What does our solar energy feed-in mean for the local community?
Thousands of solar panels cover our rooftops, about 1,450 in Moerkapelle and 3,400 in Luttelgeest. This allows us to generate more electricity than we use ourselves. The surplus green energy, produced by around 4,000 panels, is fed back into the grid through the sustainable energy company Vattenfall. This provides hundreds of households with locally generated power. In this way, we actively support the local energy transition and help bring a greener Netherlands closer.
Did you know... When the sun shines at full strength, Bredefleur uses around 2,000 panels to meet its own energy needs. The other 2,000 feed electricity back into the grid, enough to power about 200 households.
How do we align our energy generation with our cultivation needs?
Growing lilies requires a lot of energy, especially for lighting and climate control. The solar energy we generate during the day is used directly in our processes whenever possible. We also use smart energy systems and continuously explore how we can make our consumption more sustainable. This includes optimizing workflows, reducing peak usage, and implementing new, more efficient technologies such as LED lighting.
How does solar energy fit into our broader sustainability vision?
Solar panels are just one visible step. Sustainability is embedded in everything we do, from biological crop protection and energy-efficient technologies to smart packaging. We believe in continuous improvement. Not everything can change overnight, but every step counts. The solar panels are a good example of how a company can take real responsibility.
What role does sustainability play in our future plans?
Sustainability is not a temporary project but a core part of our long-term strategy. We want to lead the way in sustainable lily cultivation. That means investing in innovation, collaborating with partners who share our vision, and always staying curious. Whether it involves energy, water, soil, or transport, there is always an opportunity to improve.
Want to learn more about our sustainable initiatives?