LeaderBrand has introduced an electric harvester and two self-propelled cargo platforms to operate in its new mega greenhouse. This is the company's way of leading towards a healthier future by reducing carbon emissions.
The new Hortech eco-slide electric harvester and Hortech cargo platform are the first in New Zealand. These are specifically designed to suit LeaderBrand's indoor environment and cropping system.
Reducing emissions, fuel and oil, and finding ways to farm sustainably with new technology are essential focuses for LeaderBrand.
"We're always looking for different ways we can be more climate-friendly, and this is another step in the right direction," said LeaderBrand's General Manager of Farming, Gordon McPhail.
The electric harvester is less noisy than diesel engines, which helps to improve communication and safety for teams in the greenhouse.
"The greenhouse is the right environment for us to trial and test if electric equipment will work in our business. We designed the front packhouse of the facility with an electric harvester in mind, getting the wiring and outlets built into the greenhouse before we'd commissioned the equipment.".
With overnight charging, the harvester has a 12-hour run time, more than enough power to get through the day.
Technology and innovation continue to advance in the electric space. However, much research is still needed around scenarios involving work in the open field, potentially far from charging stations.
LeaderBrand was awarded an EECA grant, which has helped with some of the cost of investing in an electric harvester.
