AeroGrow Systems is designing a large-scale, automated vertical farming and hydroponic food production complex in a sub-polar region. The average power requirements for the proposed facility are detailed in Table 1 below.
Table 1
| Requirement | Average power / MW |
|---|---|
| For driving water purification, climate-control, and nutrient pumps | 35 |
| For LED agricultural lighting, ventilation, and automation | 15 |
| For office administration, security systems, and workspace lighting | 5 |
| Thermal energy for soil sterilization, space heating, and hot water | 110 |
The facility has two potential energy supply strategies:
The executive board is evaluating these options.
Write a comprehensive assessment of the two energy supply pathways to advise the board.
In your response, you should:
