Ground-Mounted Solar Solution at Greenhouse grower De Noordhoek

Greenhouse grower De Noordhoek, located in Kapelle, has implemented a ground-mounted solar solution in collaboration with FIRST BASE Ground Screws. The greenhouse grower, specializing in organic cultivation of cucumbers and tomatoes, had already installed solar thermal collectors and floating solar panels and wanted to take its energy transition a step further. The solution: a ground-mounted system built on screw foundations supplied by FIRST BASE — efficient, sustainable, and future-proof.

Choosing FIRST BASE Ground Screws

Henk Verhage from De Noordhoek, explains that earlier installations used concrete posts, which proved to be labor-intensive. Other options, such as placing the system directly on the ground with root-resistant fabric, were quickly dismissed. “In two years, it would look messy and plants would grow through it. We wanted an open setup where animals could move freely underneath.” Screw foundations offered the ideal alternative: quick to install, durable, and with enough clearance for wildlife.

After a quick online search, “I picked up the phone and immediately got in touch with Joris. He quickly provided a quote, which gave us a clear picture of the costs. That was a big plus for us.” After comparing several providers, FIRST BASE not only proved more cost-efficient but also offered high-quality, tested materials.

Installation Process and Collaboration

Before starting the installation, the screw foundations were tested on-site using the TP60 Pulltest Kit to determine the right type and length for the soil conditions. The project was carried out in three phases: first the east-west setup, then the embankment along the water basin, and finally the system on the asphalt area.

Henk was closely involved in the process and carried out the complete assembly of the substructure himself. “Thanks to the seasonal nature of our work, we had more time available in autumn—and the weather was on our side. FIRST BASE gave us a hands-on demonstration, and once I got the hang of it, it was easy. The structure was plug-and-play and quick to build.” The embankment installation presented a slight challenge due to uneven terrain, but using one of the FIRST BASE electric machines, the foundation was still installed with ease. “That tool really made a difference — everything went smoothly.”

Advice for Other Businesses

Verhage is very satisfied with the screw foundation solution and the partnership with FIRST BASE. “It’s a great solution—the product is solid, and the team is flexible and supportive.” He emphasizes the robustness of the foundation, capable of withstanding strong wind loads. His advice to other companies considering a similar installation? “Make sure you have a solid project timeline and choose a supplier that not only provides top-quality materials but also actively contributes ideas throughout the process — like FIRST BASE.”

About Greenhouse grower De Noordhoek

Greenhouse grower de Noordhoek is a family-run horticultural business that has been active since 1980. Since 2009, the nursery has focused entirely on organic cultivation and produces millions of organic cucumbers and tomatoes annually. With the new ground-mounted solar system, the company takes another meaningful step toward a more sustainable energy supply.