V-FAST Policy Workshop

As the UK seeks to strengthen its position as a global leader in sustainable agri-tech, this online policy workshop explores how vertical farming (VF) can scale successfully—in tandem with innovative clean energy solutions.

Hosted by the V-FAST (Vertical Farming and Storage Technology) project, this 90-minute session brings together industry leaders, energy innovators, researchers, and policy stakeholders to identify what’s needed to build a globally competitive, decarbonised vertical farming sector.

The V-FAST feasibility study, funded by Innovate UK, explores the integration of pumped hydro energy storage (PHES) with controlled environment agriculture, offering insights into co-located, low-emission food and energy systems.

Join us to discuss the regulatory, infrastructure, and policy frameworks required to make this vision a reality—from the challenges of planning and permitting, to public procurement, market access, and investment incentives.

✅ Objectives

• Identify policy support needed to scale sustainable vertical farming in the UK
• Explore infrastructure and regulatory challenges in co-locating VF with clean energy storage
• Provide recommendations for government and funding bodies based on multi-sector input
• Address policy needs across different VF scales: from SMEs to industrial-scale operators

👥 Target Participants

This event is ideal for:

• Vertical farming companies
• Renewable energy developers
• Food retailers and processors
• Agri-tech associations
• Researchers and institutes
• Policy advisers, funders, local authorities

📅 Date: Wednesday, 10th September 2025 [calendar invite]🕐 Time: 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM BST📍 Location: Online via Zoom

🌱 Explore how policies can drive competitive, low-carbon vertical farming in the UK. Join the V-FAST workshop on 10 Sept! #VF #CleanEnergy