Seeds of change: AI-powered farms

Seeds of change: AI-powered farms | Daily Tribune

The fertile ground of Philippine agriculture is about to be revolutionized. Pure Energy Holdings Corp. (PEHC), led by the visionary Tiu family, is sowing the seeds of change with its venture into AI-powered, climate-controlled indoor farms. This pioneering project aims to address the growing challenges faced by traditional agriculture, ensuring a more secure and sustainable future for Filipino farmers and consumers alike.

Dexter Tiu, PEHC’s chairman and CEO, has a deep-seated passion for agriculture, nurtured since his childhood days spent learning from his grandmother. This personal connection fuels PEHC’s commitment to innovation in the agricultural sector. As President Eric Y. Roxas acknowledges, “The agricultural sector in the Philippines [...] continues to face adverse impacts from various factors such as climate change.” These factors disrupt traditional growing seasons, reduce yields, and threaten food security.

PEHC’s indoor farms offer a compelling solution to these challenges. These technologically advanced facilities provide a haven for crops, shielding them from the unpredictable whims of weather. Scorching heat, torrential downpours, and damaging frosts become a distant memory within the precisely controlled environment. Furthermore, indoor farms act as fortresses against pests and diseases, minimizing the need for harmful chemicals that can contaminate crops and harm the environment.

AI: The Guiding Light for Growth

Artificial intelligence serves as the guiding light for these indoor farms. Sophisticated AI systems meticulously monitor and regulate environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and light levels. This ensures each crop flourishes in its ideal conditions, maximizing yield and quality. AI’s analytical prowess goes beyond monitoring. By analyzing data on nutrient uptake and growth patterns, AI can recommend real-time adjustments to further optimize production, ensuring each plant receives exactly what it needs to thrive.

Sustainability is at the heart of PEHC’s indoor farming approach. The company’s subsidiaries, NexGen Energy Corp. (XGEN) and Repower Energy Development Corp. (REDC), provide clean and reliable power through their network of solar, hydropower, and wind power facilities. This commitment to renewable energy ensures PEHC’s indoor farms leave a minimal environmental footprint.

The benefits extend beyond just clean energy. The controlled environment allows for the cultivation of exceptional produce. Consumers can expect fruits and vegetables that are not only more visually appealing — greener, crispier, and bursting with color — but also boast superior taste and health qualities. These crops are nurtured without the use of harmful insecticides and pesticides, offering peace of mind to health-conscious consumers.

PEHC has a keen eye for market opportunities. Their focus lies in cultivating “designer fruits and vegetables” like strawberries and dou miao (pea shoots). These specialty crops cater to a niche market with strong potential for revenue growth. Roxas acknowledges the saturated market for certain vegetables, stating, “we will not pursue lower-margin vegetables such as lettuces or local tomatoes.” This strategic selection positions PEHC to establish itself as a leader in this innovative agricultural sector.

Building on a Legacy of Excellence

PEHC isn’t venturing into uncharted territory. The company boasts a successful track record in cultivating high-quality produce. Their existing farms in Tagaytay and Quezon specialize in exotic fruits like sweet red-orange jackfruit, aromatic pandan coconuts, yuzu, Amalfi lemons, and macadamia nuts. Their expertise in meticulously controlled microclimates positions them perfectly to excel in the world of indoor farming.

Construction of PEHC’s pilot model for a climate-controlled indoor farm is slated to begin in the third quarter of 2024. This project represents a significant leap forward for Philippine agriculture. By embracing AI technology, renewable energy, and sustainable practices, PEHC is paving the way for a more resilient and productive agricultural future. The success of this pilot program has the potential to inspire a wave of innovation, transforming the agricultural landscape of the Philippines and ensuring a stable food supply for generations to come.

While PEHC’s initial focus is on designer fruits and vegetables, the potential applications of AI-powered indoor farms are vast. In the future, these facilities could cultivate a wider variety of crops, including herbs, leafy greens, and even certain grains. Vertical farming techniques, currently under development, could further revolutionize indoor agriculture, allowing for even greater cultivation capacity within a smaller footprint.

The integration of AI into agricultural practices holds immense promise. As AI systems become more sophisticated, they will be able to further optimize growing conditions.