Parameters Affecting Water Consumption for Greenhouse Cooling in a Hot Arid Region PDF

Keywords

greenhouse, water, hot arid region

Abstract

Crop production in greenhouses in Kuwait is constrained in summer by the prevailing harsh weather conditions, characterized by high solar irradiance and ambient temperature, and scarce freshwater resources. The harsh weather conditions and inefficient evaporative cooling systems cause excessive water consumption for greenhouse cooling. It is shown that the ambient temperature has a particularly significant effect on water consumption, which varies exponentially with temperature. The efficiency of the cooling system has also a significant effect on water consumption. It is argued that substantial water saving can be achieved by improving the efficiency of the cooling system and controlling solar irradiance transmitted into the greenhouse.