NATIONAL REPORT—Sustainability has become a global issue, and it is necessary for every industry, including hotels, to play a role in environmental sustainability. The hotel industry plays a significant role in energy consumption, making it necessary for hotels to implement energy-saving techniques and strategies to mitigate their environmental impact and reduce energy consumption.
By implementing energy-saving strategies, hotels can contribute to environmental sustainability, reduce energy costs, and improve their bottom line. Let us have a look at some energy-saving strategies that hotels can implement to optimize energy usage and promote sustainability.
Conduct an Energy Audit
Before hotels can proceed towards implementing energy-saving techniques, they should conduct an energy audit to assess their current energy usage and identify areas where they can improve energy usage and be more energy efficient. Hotels can utilize the various energy management software available to conduct an energy audit or hire professionals who can do it for them. After conducting the audit, hotels can analyze the results to identify energy-saving opportunities based on their potential impact and possible implementation.
Optimize Lighting Systems
One of the primary areas where hotels can achieve energy savings and reduce energy consumption is lighting. Top names in the hotel industry like Marriott have already optimized their lighting systems across the world by replacing traditional incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED lighting. LEDs consume less energy, are more energy efficient, have a longer lifespan, and provide better lighting quality compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.
In addition, hotels can also install motion sensors and timers in rooms and common areas to ensure that lights are only active when needed. Furthermore, hotels can encourage their guests to participate in energy-saving practices, such as turning off lights when leaving their rooms.
Implement HVAC Efficiency Measures
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are the major energy consumers in hotels around the world. It is estimated that HVAC systems consume around 70 to 90 percent of total energy in hotels. Hotels can implement HVAC efficiency measures by regularly maintaining HVAC systems to ensure that they are working optimally and there are no leaks.
In addition, hotels can install programmable thermostats to control temperatures based on occupancy patterns. There are also occupancy sensors available that can adjust HVAC settings in unoccupied areas to reduce energy waste.
Enhance Building Insulation
Installing and improving pre-existing building insulation is another way hotels can conserve energy. Hotels can enhance insulation in walls, ceilings, and windows to minimize heat transfer and properly seal air leaks to prevent energy loss. They can also utilize blinds, curtains, and reflective films to regulate heat and light in the rooms. By implementing these measures, hotels can maintain a comfortable indoor environment and reduce their reliance on HVAC systems.
Train Staff on Energy Conservation
Hotel staff can play a vital role in energy conservation efforts. Providing comprehensive training programs to educate employees about energy-saving practices can help hotels reduce their energy consumption and conserve energy. Even airlines like Emirates provide training programs for their employees about energy conservation.
Training programs should include educating employees on efficient HVAC usage, lighting control, and water conservation and encouraging them to actively participate in energy conservation efforts. To make this strategy more effective, hotels can recognize and reward staff members who contribute to energy-saving initiatives.
Embrace Renewable Energy Sources
Hotels can embrace renewable energy sources and reduce their dependence on traditional energy sources to reduce their carbon footprint. They can install solar panels on rooftops or in open spaces to generate clean and renewable energy from solar energy. Solar water heating systems can also be installed to heat water instead of using electricity or natural gas. If this is not feasible, hotels can opt to purchase green energy from energy providers and engage in energy-saving partnerships with local communities to further enhance their sustainability efforts.
