ECS Botanics has reported a significant increase in yields following the first harvest from the new protective crop enclosures (PCEs) at its north-western Victoria facility.
The initial harvest from the first of the firm’s PCEs has produced 656 kilograms of medicinal cannabis flower, up 50% on the previous highest yield of 437kg of the same strain.
ECS attributed the growth to design improvements including research and development work into lighting and heating for year-round cultivation.
In addition to higher yields, the firm told the ASX enhanced PCE design had contributed to a further improvement in flower quality and yield of “A-grade” buds.
It said with all nine new PCEs due to be completed in Q3, it was on track for a record harvest in FY25, with forecast total production of more than nine tonnes.
Managing Director, Nan-Maree Schoerie, added: “Our achievements in both yield and quality solidifies our commitment to operational excellence, innovation and providing the highest quality medicinal cannabis through our B2B and B2C channels.
“With year-round cultivation now possible, we’re well-positioned to introduce our new strains and meet the increasing demand for premium, organic medicinal cannabis both domestically and internationally.”
By the end of 2024, ECS will have commissioned five of the nine new PCEs it has committed to, with a further four expected to be commissioned by the end of February 2025, taking the total at the facility to 26.
ECS said while construction has progressed as planned, it has encountered a “small budget overrun” for the electricity upgrade necessary to power six PCEs year-round (A$250,000).
