Frédéric was looking for a solution to eliminate all phytosanitary treatments, control the climate even during heat waves and reduce his energy costs. Seeking the best technical answer, he worked closely with our teams for nearly two years to develop this 15,000 m² semi-closed plastic greenhouse project, dedicated to soilless tomato cultivation.

Our engineering department designed a one-of-a-kind prototype: a semi-closed plastic greenhouse with an inflatable double wall, integrating all of our cutting-edge technologies into an affordable plastic structure:

• A technology corridor at the back of the greenhouse to produce the ideal air (mixing outdoor and indoor air)
• Air distribution ducts and variable-speed fans
• A positive pressure system with insect-proof netting
• A cooling pad for evaporative cooling
• Low-temperature heating (45-50°C) installed close to the vegetation
• Photovoltaic panels for self-consumption
• Optimised CO₂ enrichment thanks to the greenhouse’s superior airtightness

This complete management of temperature, humidity and internal climate allows crops to grow in optimal conditions all year round, including during the hottest periods. During the August 2025 heat wave (41°C outside), the temperature inside the greenhouse never exceeded 29°C. The greenhouse provides 2 to 3°C less than glass semi-closed greenhouses during extreme heat.

The results from the very first season exceeded all expectations. For cherry tomatoes, yields reached 36 kg/m² by November (end-of-season forecast already surpassed), with an estimated landing at 40 kg/m². For beef heart tomatoes, 64 kg/m² in November against an initial forecast of 56, with an estimated landing at 70 kg/m². Uniform calibre, virtually no blossom end rot, very few second-grade fruit. Performance on par with glass Venlo semi-closed greenhouses.

Beyond yields: 40% savings on heating compared to glass, 50% water savings, 50% savings on the electricity bill thanks to photovoltaics, and zero insecticide, zero fungicide throughout the entire season. No whitewashing of the greenhouse required in summer.

Thanks to the solidarity of Les Paysans de Rougeline, in particular Davy and Vincent Clément (growers in Arles, experienced in semi-closed greenhouses), Frédéric was able to successfully operate this complex greenhouse and exceed all expectations. On the Richel side, our teams were mobilised for over 2 years to bring this project to life. A key advantage of our solution: Frédéric was able to assemble the greenhouse himself with his own team, a major benefit of plastic in terms of cost and flexibility.

On 11 July 2025, the Phoenix greenhouse was officially inaugurated in Mauguio in the presence of the Prefect of Hérault, the Prefect of PACA, the President of the Hérault Chamber of Agriculture and our Chairman Benjamin Richel. This pilot project proves that semi-closed technology can be made accessible to more growers, without compromising on performance.

Discover the inauguration in pictures (in french)

Press coverage on the Phoenix Project (in French):