Paal Elfstrum

Paal Elfstrum is the CEO and founder of Wheatfield Gardens LLC, a commercial greenhouse operation located in North Tonawanda, New York, approximately 10 miles north of Buffalo.1 He has been working to revitalize the facility since 2015.1

Some key information about Paal Elfstrum:

Professional Background

• Current Role: CEO at Wheatfield Gardens LLC2
• Industry: Agriculture, specifically hydroponic indoor farming1
• Experience: Commercial greenhouse owner and operator2

Company Details

Wheatfield Gardens is a 550,000 sq ft hydroponic indoor agricultural facility that produces high-value crops using energy-efficient technology.1 Under Elfstrum's leadership, the company has implemented innovative solutions to improve efficiency and sustainability:

• Installation of dimmable LEDs with light spectrum control
• Implementation of an adaptive lighting controller to maximize energy efficiency
• Focus on competing during winter months using LED lights

Education

Elfstrum attended the University of Maryland College Park.2

Innovative Approach

Elfstrum has shown a keen interest in adopting new technologies to improve greenhouse operations. He worked with NYSERDA (New York State Energy Research and Development Authority) to implement an adaptive lighting controller, which has resulted in significant energy savings and improved crop management.1

Elfstrum values technology that is specifically designed for agriculture, stating, "It is more intuitive than any other controllers we considered as it was designed specifically for growing. Many controllers have been designed by lighting company engineers with no agricultural experience."1

Through his leadership, Wheatfield Gardens has positioned itself as an innovative player in the indoor agriculture industry, focusing on energy efficiency and sustainable growing practices.