2023 Trends and Technologies in LED Lighting for Horticulture

Exponential revenue gains are forecasted for LED grow lights during the next five years. Market drivers include: legalization of cannabis across the US & Canada, the use of LEDs in supplemental greenhouse lighting, and generous utility subsidies for energy efficient lighting. The nascent horticulture market has similarities with the general lighting market from a decade ago, with opportunities for innovation and healthy margins as standards are set and the market matures.

An understanding of horticulture lighting metrics such as micromoles and daily light integral would be helpful for this session.

Learning Objectives

1. Obtain a deeper understanding of the benefits of LED lighting for horticulture over traditional technologies such as high pressure sodium.
2. Gain an understanding of the energy savings attributable to LEDs vs older technologies and typical rebates offered by utility companies.
3. Learn about the market drivers and key horticulture applications now and the emerging applications in the next 5-10 years.
4. Obtain an understanding of the regulatory standards used in horticulture lighting and how they are different from general lighting.

Brian Bennett
CEO, Thrive Agritech, Inc.

Brian Bennett is the founder and CEO of Thrive Agritech and has held various senior management and design positions in the LED lighting industry ranging from venture-backed start-ups to Fortune Global 500 companies. As Director of Technology for UK based Illumis Lights, Brian oversaw the global design, development and manufacturing of advanced LED lighting fixtures. As Director of Engineering for the LED lighting division of Toyota Tsusho America, he helped design and develop LED lighting products for industrial, commercial and residential applications.

He’s a graduate of the University of Rochester, holding a BSc in Optical Engineering, and is certified by the National Council of Qualifications for Lighting Professionals.