"Sollum Technologies started with dynamic LED lighting in CEA a decade ago which remains our focus area, with unmatched technology," says Sam Soltaninejad, Chief Horticulture Specialist. "Unlike traditional lighting systems, our solution is fully programmable and reprogrammable directly within the greenhouse, allowing growers to modulate the full spectrum of natural sunlight in real-time."
The company's SUN as a Service® (SUNaaS®) cloud platform works seamlessly with their fixtures, applying precise light spectrum control tailored to crop type, growth stage, and environmental conditions. Beyond technology, Sollum prides itself on providing unparalleled support to growers.
Enhancing crop performance across multiple sectors
Sollum collaborates with greenhouse growers and research centers across multiple sectors, including fruit and vegetable production, ornamentals and cut flowers, as well as cannabis and specialty crops. "From strawberries and leafy greens to cucumbers and radishes, our 3-in-1 solution has helped growers achieve remarkable results in yield, quality, and energy savings," he explains. "The best part is that our adaptability means that lighting strategies can be modified as market conditions change, without the costly need to replace fixtures. Instead, it's just a matter of adjusting the light recipe."
LED technology has evolved far beyond simply replacing HPS fixtures. "The future of greenhouse lighting is dynamic," he emphasizes. "Growers can now adjust light intensity, spectrum, and distribution based on real-time crop responses. This approach not only reduces energy consumption but also optimizes crop performance, transforming lighting from a basic operational cost to a strategic tool."
Projects driving innovation
Sollum is actively involved in several key projects. "In large-scale strawberry production, we are fine-tuning dynamic lighting strategies to enhance fruit quality and extend growing seasons," Sam mentions. "In the cut flower sector, tailored light recipes are being tested to reduce reliance on plant growth regulators (PGRs), while improving stem length, bloom consistency, and post-harvest performance." Greenhouse peppers and mini cucumbers are also benefiting from this technology, as adaptable lighting conditions help boost yields and efficiency, particularly during low-light periods.
Additionally, Sollum collaborates with universities and research centers to develop crop-specific lighting strategies. "A recent technological partnership with Leaficient has led to the first closed-loop, plant-adaptive dynamic lighting system, which adjusts in real-time based on plant productivity and growth rates," he says.
Best practices for optimizing greenhouse lighting
Sam mentions growers need to think beyond fixed lighting recipes. "Traditional one-size-fits-all strategies can limit a crop's potential," he explains. "Adaptive lighting strategies, which respond dynamically to plant physiology and ambient light conditions, open up new possibilities for optimization."
Another important approach is leveraging multi-zone control within a greenhouse. "Not all crops have the same lighting needs, and even the same crop can require different supplemental lighting depending on its location within the facility," he states. "By dividing a greenhouse into lighting zones, each crop receives precisely what it needs at the right time. This level of control is particularly beneficial when timing flower blooms for specific delivery schedules, and Sollum's technology makes it possible within a single system."
Lighting as a tool for quality and yield optimization
Data-driven lighting adjustments are another game-changer. "By combining real-time crop monitoring with adjustable light spectra, growers can improve yield predictability and quality control," he says. "Dynamic LED systems like Sollum's react automatically to environmental shifts, reducing the risks associated with over- or under-lighting."
Lighting's impact goes beyond simple plant growth. "Spectral tuning can enhance cannabinoid production in cannabis, improve flavor profiles in fruits, and extend the vase life of flowers," Sam highlights. "Rather than just focusing on yield, growers can use lighting as a powerful quality optimization tool."
Factors influencing the industry
Several market trends are shaping the future of greenhouse lighting. "With rising energy costs, growers are seeking lighting solutions that maximize efficiency without compromising yield," he shares. "Governments and utilities are expanding rebate programs to encourage the adoption of energy-efficient LED systems, making the transition more accessible."
The industry is also seeing greater adoption of AI and data-driven cultivation techniques. "Growers are integrating sensors and analytics to fine-tune climate conditions, target daily light integrals (DLI), and optimize crop performance," he explains.
Another notable shift is the push toward year-round greenhouse production. "Even in regions with challenging winter conditions, dynamic LED lighting is enabling consistent, high-quality production by maintaining optimal light conditions throughout the seasons," he states. "Additionally, there is increasing diversification within greenhouse crops, with growers expanding beyond traditional tomatoes and cucumbers to include strawberries, leafy greens, herbs, and cut flowers—all of which benefit from precise lighting control."
"Today, it is about precision, flexibility, and crop optimization," he says. "Dynamic lighting is no longer just a concept for the future—it is happening now. The ability to fine-tune and customize light in real time is becoming a key differentiator for modern growers, and Sollum is excited to continue driving innovation in the industry."
For more information:
Sollum Technologies
Saman Soltaninejad, Chief Horticultural Specialist
sam@sollum.tech
sollumtechnologies.com