Illumitex, green tech developer and manufacturer of LED grow light technology, announced initial steps in what is expected to be a long-term partnership with Singapore’s largest vertical farm, Sustenir Agriculture. Sustenir is an innovative indoor farming endeavor that brings much-needed local, fresh produce to the island country in Southeast Asia.
Dissatisfied with the LED lights from other manufacturers that they had been using, Sustenir opted to partner with Illumitex not only for the company’s superior LED lighting technology, but also because of the exemplary support Illumitex provides its customers.
“Throughout the exploratory process, we’ve received great support from the Illumitex team,” says Ben Swan, Sustenir co-founder. “Illumitex provides a wealth of knowledge regarding every aspect of urban farming. And the technical abilities of the lights are terrific, as well — the dimming, the efficiency and the uniform light distribution all contribute to a superior product.”
Sustenir and Illumitex expect to continue to grow their partnership as Sustenir expands its operations into mainland China and throughout the Asia-Pacific region. “We want Illumitex right beside us as we bring local food to residents throughout Southeast Asia and beyond,” says Swan.
Illumitex CEO Chris Hammelef is glad to hear it. “Sustenir is a global leader in controlled environmental agriculture, as is Illumitex, so a partnership makes sense. Singapore is just the beginning of a long relationship between our companies,” he says.
Residents of Singapore, a highly urbanized country with little farmland, must import more than 90% of their food. Sustenir and Illumitex will put a dent in those imports by growing delicious leafy greens right in the heart of a nation known for its flavorful curries and spicy stir-fries.
“Quality of food is a critical part of Singaporean culture and it’s truly a privilege to be part of a team honoring that tradition,” says Paul Hardej, Illumitex VP of Hortitecture™ Lighting Solutions. “Sustenir is one of the most technologically advanced vertical farms we have worked with so far.”
This fall, Sustenir will install more than 2,100 Illumitex Eclipse grow lights — some retrofit and some new— in its 12,000-square-foot farm, along with sophisticated control systems. The company plans to have its first harvest under Illumitex lights to market by November.
Growing food locally is a more sustainable way to supply Singapore’s increasing population with fresh, nutritious and delicious food. Sustenir and Illumitex both rank sustainability as a major priority, and are thrilled to have the opportunity to greatly reduce the “foodprint” required to get good food on Singapore’s tables.
