Bill Gates' green tech fund bets on Silicon Valley farming robots

Modules of Genovese basil and other plants are seen in the Iron Ox greenhouse in Gilroy, California, U.S. on September 15, 2021. Picture taken September 15, 2021. REUTERS/Nathan Frandino

(Reuters) - As California struggles with another crippling drought, a Silicon Valley startup that believes robots can grow produce more sustainably said Wednesday it raised $50 million in a funding round led by Bill Gates' Breakthrough Energy Ventures.

Iron Ox uses robots that are integrated with a hydroponic system consuming 90% less water than traditional farms, said CEO Brandon Alexander.