Every year, when this report kicks off, I naturally fall into a cycle of reflection. Results from the study are reminders of conversations we’ve had with growers throughout the world. Trends from year-over-year reports mirror the momentum we continue to feel across the global cannabis industry. Responses from the report’s newest questions validate anecdotal evidence from what we hear on the ground with growers every day.
In September, Fluence hosted our sixth PHOTOx Advanced Sciences Summit in Austin, Texas, where we convened growers and global researchers to explore, discuss and debate the latest breakthroughs in cannabis science and cultivation. Of the many interesting tidbits and themes that emerged from this year’s show, two stuck out to me. Firstly, the shift from a yield-first mindset to one that prioritizes plant quality has accelerated. Secondly, growers are tapping into some of the world’s most advanced technology—like sensing, automation and artificial intelligence—to optimize lighting strategies and drive revenue growth.
Findings from this year’s “State of the Cannabis Lighting Market” report echo those insights. When asked what factor was most important to them in opting for LEDs, 42% of study participants cited “crop quality.” Plus, nearly half of respondents reported average yields of 80 grams per square foot or more (up 33 percentage points from 2023). And this year, a new question on spectral properties and purchasing decisions was added to the study. (Nearly a quarter (23%) of respondents said “40-50% red” was the spectral property most important to them.)
One constant has remained at the heart of these reports for nearly a decade: Cannabis growers are natural innovators. They move quickly to adopt new technology and customize applications in their facilities. They confer with each other, seeking to learn from the brightest minds in the industry in the pursuit of advancing cultivation. And perhaps most importantly, they are endlessly curious. The 2024 report showcases both an increased knowledge about LEDs’ benefits and an interest in exploring new lighting strategies—including side, intercanopy and sub-canopy lighting. Growers worldwide—whether in emerging or established markets—share a desire to embrace new ideas.
Read on to hear from nearly 200 growers about what’s driving lighting strategies for vegetation and flower, how rebates are aiding the LED conversion process, and much more. We’re proud to support the ninth iteration of the “State of the Cannabis Lighting Market” report and put more data into the hands of cultivators everywhere.
To helping the world grow smarter, together,
Steve Graves
Senior Vice President, Strategy & Business Development, Fluence
