Light Science Technologies Holdings PLC (AIM:LST), a leading player in the smart agriculture market, has secured a significant grant from The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and Innovate UK. The £188,251 grant, part of a £299,748 collaboration, will support the development of sensors for monitoring soil conditions, complementing the company’s existing air zone sensors.
According to CEO Simon Deacon, this initiative, led by Light Science Technologies in collaboration with Bridge Farms and Zenith Nurseries, aims to enhance crop yields and make agricultural practices more cost-efficient by optimizing fertilizer and energy usage. The project aligns with the company’s broader goal of enabling continuous crop growth in controlled environments such as glasshouses and vertical farms.
Deacon highlighted the smart agriculture market’s potential, noting a global value projected at $55 billion by 2032, with a 12% growth rate. Light Science Technologies, which has established a global distribution network, expects to integrate the new sensor technology into its SensorGrow product range for commercial sale after a 12-month trial period.
The grant from Defra and Innovate UK underscores the importance of innovative solutions in addressing the challenges of food production. By leveraging advanced sensor technology, Light Science Technologies aims to contribute to more sustainable and efficient agricultural practices, ultimately supporting the global food supply chain. The company’s efforts align with the growing demand for smart agriculture solutions, positioning it as a key player in this rapidly evolving market. With the support of the government grant, Light Science Technologies is poised to drive significant advancements in the field of food production research.
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