Winter in Canada has always posed challenges for domestic food production, with fresh produce often imported from warmer-climate countries. However, Ontario Tech University’s Brilliant Catalyst is changing the game with its innovative ‘Brilliant Farm Project’. This project, which recently secured a $1 million grant from the Weston Family Foundation, aims to develop an energy-efficient controlled environment agriculture (CEA) facility at Willowtree Farm in Port Perry, Ontario. By stretching the growing season and utilizing cutting-edge technologies, the project aims to revolutionize winter food production in Canada.
The Brilliant Farm Project is driven by Brilliant Catalyst, Ontario Tech’s on-campus incubator for innovation and entrepreneurship. The project brings together community partners, including research partners Turnkey Aquaponics and Moduleaf Technologies, to find solutions for the challenges faced by domestic growers. Dr. Osman Hamid, Ontario Tech’s Founding Director of Creativity and Entrepreneurship, leads the project as the Principal Investigator.
The CEA facility at Willowtree Farm is a thermally-enhanced greenhouse with 350 square metres of dedicated grow space. It has been optimized by a team of experts from various fields, ranging from artificial intelligence to aerospace systems engineering. The facility incorporates several innovative technologies, including a Combined Cooling, Heat, and Power System (CCHP) that uses organic waste to generate heat and electricity. This system not only warms the grow space but also recycles carbon dioxide and delivers nutritional support to the plants. Additionally, a Waste Heat Dehumidification System utilizes captured waste heat from artificial lights to provide dehumidification. An Autonomous Intelligent Monitoring System (AIMS) monitors the health and growth of the plants, triggering early interventions if necessary.
The Brilliant Farm Project aims to address the energy efficiency and labor challenges associated with indoor controlled environments. By finding affordable and sustainable solutions, the project aims to bring farm-to-table produce to consumers in a shorter time frame. Dr. Hamid envisions the project not only mitigating the current food crisis but also making Canadian growers more competitive.
The collaboration between Ontario Tech University, Willowtree Farm, Turnkey Aquaponics Inc., and Moduleaf Technologies highlights the power of integrated solutions. The project embraces failure as an opportunity for rapid learning and improvement. Alex McKay, Co-owner of Willowtree Farm, emphasizes the excitement of working with new partners and expanding networks. The Homegrown Innovation Challenge, which awarded the project the $1 million grant, aligns with the vision of creating a sustainable ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship.
The Brilliant Farm Project is set to revolutionize winter food production in Canada. By leveraging technological advancements and fostering collaboration, Ontario Tech’s entrepreneurship ecosystem is paving the way for a future where Canadian growers can thrive and provide fresh, locally-grown produce year-round.
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