Sustainable Domestic Vertical Farming: Energy Consumption of an Indoor Farming Appliance

The development of domestic vertical farming units, known as indoor smart gardens or home cultivators, has been driven by recent technological advancements and the quest for sustainable farming practices. These units enable indoor farming of microgreens, offering numerous environmental and social benefits, particularly for older individuals and restaurant owners. However, a potential drawback that may hinder the widespread adoption of these systems is their energy consumption. As energy costs continue to rise and concerns about efficient energy usage to mitigate climate-related issues grow, particularly in regions reliant on fossil fuels, it is essential to address this issue. Despite the potential benefits of these systems, few studies have conducted an energy and environmental sustainability assessment of these emerging farming systems. Therefore, it is crucial to thoroughly evaluate these systems before promoting them to optimize their functionality and maximize their benefits. To address this gap, we assessed the electricity consumption of a commercial home cultivator used for growing lettuce, using smart meters to provide real-time information on electricity usage and peak demands. This study provides information for potential consumers to understand usage patterns, allocate resources efficiently, and plan for future capacity enhancements. Additionally, we stress the transition towards decarbonization of our energy systems.