Evaluating Renewable and Affordable Heating Solutions for Finnish Greenhouse Production

Abstract

Greenhouse production in Finland relies heavily on heating due to long, cold winters and high energy intensity, making heating the dominant operational cost. This study investigates renewable and affordable heating solutions for Finnish greenhouses by combining a technical–economic comparison with qualitative insights from seven greenhouse operators. The study addresses a significant research gap, as previous work has largely focused on modelling or technical evaluations without incorporating real-world grower experiences, investment perceptions, and operational challenges. A qualitative exploratory methodology grounded in interpretivism was used, with semi-structured interviews forming the core data source. Participants represented diverse greenhouse sizes, crops and heating systems, ranging from biomass boilers and heat pumps to biogas and industrial waste-heat integration. Thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s framework enabled the identification of key themes including system performance, cost variability, barriers to adoption, policy influence and future system preferences.

Results show that biomass is the most widely used, valued for its cost stability and local availability. Hybrid systems particularly biogas combined with industrial waste heat offered the highest performance, with low winter cost fluctuations and strong reliability. Heat pumps were also positively evaluated, particularly ground-source systems. In contrast, fossil-based systems such as oil or natural gas showed the lowest performance and highest price volatility. High capital cost, technical complexity, limited expertise and policy uncertainty emerged as major barriers to adoption. Growers stressed the need for long-term, consistent energy policies and financial support. Recommendations include increased policy stability, expanded incentive schemes, technical training for growers and greater development of modular hybrid technologies. The study contributes novel empirical insights to support Finland’s transition toward carbon-neutral greenhouse heating.