Empire State Greenhouses (ESG) has unveiled ambitious plans to construct a revolutionary circular “GigaFarm” in Cobleskill, New York, in collaboration with Intelligent Growth Solutions (IGS), a prominent vertical farming technology provider based in Edinburgh. This cutting-edge facility, spanning 36,000 square meters, is set to redefine agricultural practices by producing three million kilos of fresh produce annually through an innovative system of 100 vertical farming Growth Towers. Additionally, the GigaFarm will incorporate on-site greenhouses capable of yielding an extra 700,000 kilos of crops, showcasing a commitment to efficiency and sustainability.
The GigaFarm’s design emphasizes a circular approach to crop production, integrating renewable energy generation and a Food-Energy-Waste (FEW) system. This innovative setup aims to reduce energy costs by one-third, significantly lowering the overall cost of food production. Once fully operational, the facility will boast the capacity to produce over a billion plants each year, growing as many as 50 different crop types within its Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) framework. This means consumers can expect high-quality, fresh produce with minimal food miles, available year-round.
The implications of this project extend beyond just agricultural innovation. The GigaFarm is anticipated to be a model of sustainability, operating with up to 98% water efficiency and utilizing a range of proven renewable technologies, including biogas digesters, gasifiers, solar photovoltaic systems, LED grow lights, energy storage solutions, and combined heat and power systems. This holistic approach not only positions ESG and IGS at the forefront of agricultural technology but also contributes to the broader goal of climate resilience.
Moreover, the facility’s strategic location adjacent to SUNY Cobleskill, one of the leading agricultural and technology colleges in the nation, presents unique opportunities for collaboration. ESG’s plans include the creation of over 185 full-time jobs and more than 400 indirect jobs, which will significantly benefit the local economy. The initiative will also provide internship and research opportunities for students, fostering a new generation of agricultural professionals equipped with hands-on experience in advanced farming techniques.
As ESG and IGS embark on this transformative journey, the Cobleskill GigaFarm stands as a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and community engagement, potentially setting a precedent for future agricultural endeavors across the globe.
