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Switchable Lighting: Smarter Spectrum Control Without the Complexity

August 5. 2025

In the world of horticultural lighting, dynamic spectrum control has become a major focus. As growers look for ways to optimize yield, quality, and energy efficiency, lighting systems that offer spectral flexibility are gaining ground. One of the most talked-about technologies in this space is Multichannel lighting – systems that allow individual control over blue, green/white, red, and far-red channels.

Originally developed for research environments, Multichannel systems have recently entered commercial production. Their appeal lies in the promise of independent channel control, giving growers the ability to fine-tune light recipes for different crops and growth stages. But with that control comes complexity and cost.


The Real-World Challenge

While Multichannel lighting offers theoretical advantages, the reality in most greenhouses and vertical farms is different. Growers often don’t need infinite control over every channel. What they need is a solution where they can change between few spectrums to match the crop growing phase and boost yield.

This is where Switchable lighting comes in. It enables this technology at the same cost level as fixed spectrum solutions.

A Special Solution for Real Growers

At Food Autonomy, we’ve developed a unique approach to dynamic lighting. Our Switchable technology allows growers to choose from up to 20 predefined spectral combinations, tailored to real-world cultivation needs. Instead of adjusting each channel manually, growers can activate the spectra that matter most based on crop type, growth phase, or seasonal conditions.

And because Switchable systems are designed with simplicity in mind, they come with minimal hardware complexity and a significantly lower cost compared to Multichannel setups.

Key Advantages of Switchable Lighting:

  • Dynamic spectrum flexibility without the need for full manual control
  • Up to 5 channels and 20 spectral outputs to match diverse crop strategies
  • Automatic power redirection from inactive channels to maintain high PPF
  • Lower investment and easier integration into existing system

     

Designed for Growers

Switchable lighting is not a stripped-down version of Multichannel; it’s a purpose-built solution for growers who want results, not complications. It delivers the benefits of dynamic lighting in a way that’s accessible, scalable, and aligned with the realities of commercial horticulture.

Because in the end, it’s not about having every option.
It’s about having the right ones.

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