Fera Science - Turnkey Research Facility

Ebtech Glasshouse Systems was commissioned by Fera Science Ltd to design, supply, and construct two advanced Venlo glasshouses, each providing 180.4m² of controlled research and growing space.
Purpose-built for precision plant science, the facilities deliver exceptional structural performance, superior energy efficiency, and full environmental automation — enabling year-round experimentation in a fully contained environment.

Design and Construction
Each 4m-high Venlo glasshouse (6.4m x 11m) is divided into four equal growing compartments with a central corridor housing electrical control panels.
Built as closed glasshouses with no roof ventilation, they ensure the high level of containment and climate control required for specialist research.
Glazed with Geysir energy-saving glass, the structures provide outstanding insulation and reduced energy use, resulting in a robust, energy-efficient, and automated research facility.

Groundworks and Civil Engineering
Ebtech delivered the full civil package, including removal of the existing slab, installation of a 150mm reinforced concrete base, and foul and surface water drainage.
Works included drainage gulleys in each compartment, HVAC and electrical distribution unit bases, 1m-high insulated concrete perimeter walls with brick-slip finish, external pathways, and perimeter fencing.

Internal Fit-Out
Each growing compartment (3.2m x 4.5m) features static weld mesh benching, hand-watering points, and Valoya LED grow lights to optimise plant development.
General and emergency lighting were installed throughout to support operational safety and efficiency.

Environmental and Energy Systems
Ludvig Svensson Harmony thermal and shading screens enhance energy saving and environmental control — 5747 FR roof screens and 5845 FR side/gable screens allow precise management of light, temperature, and heat retention.
The facility’s Ridder climate control system provides full environmental automation with remote access, allowing Fera’s team to monitor and adjust growing conditions off-site.

Heating and Cooling
Each glasshouse includes an independent heating and cooling system, comprising eight CIAT air-to-air HVAC units (22kW cooling / 16.5kW heating) and 12kW backup heaters.
Insulated ductwork ensures even temperature distribution in each compartment,supported by high-level fans and low-level louvres in the corridors for efficient air circulation and summer cooling.

Outcome
The completed facilities offer fully automated, energy-efficient, and high-containment research environments, designed to meet Fera’s exacting operational and experimental standards.