ClearSpan: A different greenhouse layout to optimize space, light and installations
by Marc Tuit01 June 20262 min read
ClearSpan is a newly developed greenhouse concept by Alcomij, designed for cultivation strategies that increasingly rely on multiple screen layers. Instead of positioning screens within or directly against the truss, ClearSpan integrates them higher up in the greenhouse structure. This results in a different internal layout, creating more effective light transmission, additional air volume for climate buffering, and more usable space below the truss for crop and technical installations. The concept directly responds to the growing demand for improved energy efficiency, climate control and production performance in modern high-tech greenhouses.
In modern greenhouse operations, the number of screen installations continues to increase. Where a single screen layer used to be sufficient, it is now common to work with two, three or even four screens. Within conventional greenhouse layouts, this leads to limitations in available space, light interception and integration of technical systems.
The core of ClearSpan is a structural reconfiguration of screen positioning. By integrating screens higher up in the greenhouse construction, more free space is created below the truss. This results in greater flexibility for both crop development and the installation of technical systems such as lighting, ventilation, heating and air distribution.
This layout also impacts light and climate performance. With screens positioned further out of the direct light path, light interception is reduced. At the same time, the increased air volume below the screens contributes to a larger climate buffer, supporting more stable greenhouse conditions.
From an energy perspective, ClearSpan offers additional benefits. By positioning multiple screens closer together within the structure, a more effective insulating package is created. This supports growers aiming to reduce energy consumption and improve overall greenhouse efficiency.
ClearSpan has been developed based on practical challenges from the sector and translated into a manufacturable greenhouse structure within Alcomij’s production capabilities. The concept is particularly relevant for growers and greenhouse builders working with multiple screen strategies and looking to optimize space, light and technical integration.
The core of ClearSpan is a structural reconfiguration of screen positioning. By integrating screens higher up in the greenhouse construction, more free space is created below the truss. This results in greater flexibility for both crop development and the installation of technical systems such as lighting, ventilation, heating and air distribution.
This layout also impacts light and climate performance. With screens positioned further out of the direct light path, light interception is reduced. At the same time, the increased air volume below the screens contributes to a larger climate buffer, supporting more stable greenhouse conditions.
From an energy perspective, ClearSpan offers additional benefits. By positioning multiple screens closer together within the structure, a more effective insulating package is created. This supports growers aiming to reduce energy consumption and improve overall greenhouse efficiency.
ClearSpan has been developed based on practical challenges from the sector and translated into a manufacturable greenhouse structure within Alcomij’s production capabilities. The concept is particularly relevant for growers and greenhouse builders working with multiple screen strategies and looking to optimize space, light and technical integration.