Hydroponic Farming Pod (Hydropod)

Our network of gardens includes our hydropod – a cutting-edge vertical farming system within a standard shipping container located behind Anderson Hall. The tightly regulated environment of the hydropod allows for year-round produce growth, particularly leafy greens, and is ideal for faculty and student research.

The hydropod is a controlled environment agriculture (CEA) farm made from a customized shipping container. It’s equipped with LED lighting, a high-efficiency HVAC system, recirculating water pumps, a dehumidification system and sensors. These electric technologies create a microclimate that optimizes plant production.

NIU’s hydropod is one of several supported by ComEd and EPRI, an independent, nonprofit energy research institute. Together, the network of pods in the Chicago area will provide data to help improve access to healthy, sustainably grown foods in our communities.

By contributing to research and providing food to Campus Dining and the Huskie Food Pantry, our hydropod can help meet local food, energy, water and sustainability goals.