The Australian Research Council (ARC) Research Hub for Intelligent Energy Efficiency in Future Protected Cropping (E2Crop Hub) has officially launched, bringing together leading researchers, industry partners and government to drive innovation in sustainable agriculture.
ARC CEO, Professor Ute Roessner and E2Crop Hub Director, Distinguished Professor Tianyi Ma. Image Credit: Supplied.
Driving innovation in agriculture
Protected cropping - growing plants in controlled environments like greenhouses - plays a vital role in food production. This Hub aims to advance the approach by integrating cutting-edge technologies such as AgriPV solar panels, smart films, energy storage systems, and self-powered smart sensors that monitor and control greenhouse conditions. The goal is to create greenhouses that are fully self-sustaining, cost-effective, and powered entirely by renewable energy.
To support this transformation, the research team at RMIT University will develop automated decision-making tools that help farmers maximise crop yields, optimise resource use and enhance environmental outcomes - ensuring producers are well-equipped in the face of rapidly changing climate conditions.
Beyond sustainability, the Hub promises significant economic and social benefits. Its research will reduce energy costs, boost water and nutrient efficiency, and reinforce food security and create jobs in the green technology sector.
This Hub is positioning Australia as a global leader in energy-smart food production by sharing scalable models and insights through industry collaborations, annual symposiums, and international conferences. In doing so, it addresses worldwide challenges of energy efficiency and sustainable agriculture, ensuring that Australia remains at the forefront of innovation despite environmental constraints.
Partnership to grow the future
Backed by $5 million from the ARC and over $19 million in total contributions, this Hub is off to a powerful start.
It has launched 6 research projects with academic and industry partners, recruited research fellows and PhD students, and established a strong digital presence.
ARC Chief Executive Officer Professor Ute Roessner said the Hub will help ensure that Australia remains a global leader in agricultural science and technology.
'The E2Crop Hub is showing us how we can produce more with less - by harnessing renewable energy, advanced plant science, and intelligent greenhouse technology,' Professor Roessner said.
'At the ARC, we are proud to support research that is advancing productivity and strengthening sustainability. The Hub's work will ensure Australia remains at the forefront of global advances in agricultural science and technology.'
The ARC Research Hub for Intelligent Energy Efficiency in Future Protected Cropping is more than a research initiative - it's a blueprint for the future of farming.
Learn more about the work of the ARC Research Hub for Intelligent Energy Efficiency in Future Protected Cropping and follow its progress.
