Optimal control of greenhouse climate.

Abstract Using mathematical process models and dynamic optimization theory optimal temperature and CO2 strategies for the cultivation of a lettuce crop have been calculated. The application of long term mean weather data as weather forecast results in a lower energy and CO2 consumption compared to static strategies containing no information about the weather. The applicability of the optimal strategies as open-loop control of a real process depends on the differences between the expected and the actual outdoor climate, modelling errors and the accuracy of the climate control. The effect of an inaccurate long term weather forecast is analyzed. Repeated optimization, in literature reffered to as a way to cope with differences between the expected and the actual weather, does not lead to a lower energy and CO2 consumption.