With the legalization of cannabis in the US, commercial growing operations are booming. Commercial cultivators recognize the benefits of growing indoors. The technique is cost-effective compared to growing outdoors. You can start small, without a large piece of land. Moreover, you can grow discreetly without worrying much about legal compliance. Not to mention, you have tighter control over indoor operations. But energy efficiency is often a concern because indoor cultivation requires massive investment in lighting, temperature control, and irrigation systems. However, there are ways to make indoor cannabis cultivation energy-efficient. Here are some tips you can rely on.

Adjust the size of grow

Commercial growers have some expectations regarding the size of their operations. Adjusting the number of plants can have a far-reaching impact on energy usage and costs.  Starting small is a good option as it lets you determine the best sustainability practices and strategies. You can scale them later as you grow the size of your operations. The knowledge and experience give you an advantage.

Improve insulation

Indoor cultivation requires temperature control, as cannabis crops require an optimal temperature to thrive. You can expect to spend a significant sum on HVAC costs every month. But you have the option to cut them down by improving the insulation of your growing area. Proper insulation can prevent the wastage of energy, as the space remains at an optimal temperature for a longer time. Ensure no gaps around the doors and windows and use styrofoam wall paneling for extra insulation.

Switch to LED lighting

Lighting is another essential factor to keep your plants thriving indoors. After all, you have to make sure they get enough of it even without sunlight. LED lighting is far more energy-efficient than other types of lighting. Experts recommend a 300 watt led grow light as an ideal one for indoor cultivation. It can cut down energy bills without compromising the quality of the crop. Make this one-time investment for your indoor operation, and you can save month after month.

Monitor your energy usage

Upgrading your lighting and HVAC systems gets you the right start with the energy efficiency of your indoor operation. But you must keep track of energy usage to ensure that it is at an optimal level. Tracking consumption enables you to find gaps because they may still exist. You can devise a plan to curb consumption and make adequate changes to save as much as possible. Track usage month after month to assess anomalies down the line.

Save more water

Energy efficiency goes beyond cutting down the electrify bills. It is more about reducing the overall environmental footprint of your business. You have to consider saving water for this purpose. Optimizing the irrigation system takes you a long way with saving water. Ensure to water the cannabis plants only when they require it. You can go the extra mile by automating irrigation with specialized sensors. The investment is worthwhile as it can save tons of water.

The success of your commercial cannabis cultivation business depends on the quality and yield of the crop. But you must invest in the energy efficiency of operations as it reduces the operational costs significantly. Not to mention, you build a reputation for being a sustainable business owner.