The application of artificial illumination to induce photoperiodic effects on chrysanthemum nursevy production implies in a rational electrical energy use. In this context, the objective of this research was to test and to analyze the application of high intensity discharge (HID) illumination to substitute the conventional incandescent filament illumination in chrysanthemum nurseries production. The presence of floral buttons was taken as the main parameter in evaluating the tested varieties because it is closely associated to photoperiodic effects. Electrical energy evaluation parameters included demand, consumption, power factor as well as specific consumption. Results generated by the statistical analysis indicated no increase in the number of buttons associated with the high discharge illumination method. However the illumination with compacted yellow fluorescent discharge lamps of 23 W presented the lowest maximum demand as well as a 75% energy consumption reduction when compared with the 100 W incandescent lamps.
artificial illumination; vegetal production; energetic efficiency
