But the $7.9 billion industry developed when gas was less costly.A price crisis will likely speed up a change to other energy sources, but it could also cause many businesses to fail.European gas prices have increased by about 20 times the level they were at a year ago.The increase is mainly a result of Russia restricting gas supplies in answer to Western sanctions over its invasion of Ukraine.Industry group Glastuinbouw Nederland says up to 40 percent of its 3,000 members are having financial problems.That could result in less out-of-season fruit, vegetables and flowers in European stores.It could also mean production might move to warmer countries such as Spain, Morocco and Kenya.Greenhouse owner Pieter Wijnen would like to pay attention to growing vegetables.But his life has centered on gas and electricity prices rather than his vegetables - bell peppers and cucumbers.
