The hotel industry is essential to the world economy, with thousands of hotels across the globe. However, this sector is one of the main consumers of electricity, since the services they offer to their guests require large amounts of energy. However, the ecological awareness and growing consumer demand have led many hotel chains to focus on reducing their carbon footprint through the use of renewable energy, especially solar energy.
Innovations in energy saving within the hotel sector
Today, more hotels are adopting eco-friendly practices to reduce their environmental impact. These actions not only help preserve the environment, but also represent significant savings in their operating costs.
One of the first famous cases was the hotel Crowne Plaza in Denmark, which incorporated solar panels into its façade. This technology not only provides a substantial part of the energy it consumes, but also improves the efficiency of the building thanks to the sustainable design of the project. As a result, it is estimated that this hotel consumes an estimated 50% less energy compared to other establishments of similar size that continue to use conventional methods.
Another example is the Power Valley Jingjiang International In China, a luxury hotel has integrated 3800 photovoltaic modules into its infrastructure. This allows it to generate 10% of the energy it consumes. In addition, this hotel uses an innovative solar system. thermal energy recycling system from wastewater, which is used for heating, cooling and hot water.
Advantages of solar self-consumption in hotels
Solar self-consumption in the hotel sector offers numerous economic and environmental advantages. More and more hotels are choosing to install solar panels on their rooftops and other available areas to generate their own electricity. Thanks to these investments, they have managed to significantly reduce their dependence on the conventional electricity grid.
The main advantages of solar self-consumption include:
- Electric bill reduction: Hotels can save up to 50% on their electricity costs by choosing to self-consume the solar energy generated.
- Minimal maintenanceSolar panels have a lifespan of up to 30 years and require little maintenance, which reduces long-term operating costs.
- Compensation of surpluses: Hotels can sell the excess energy generated, allowing them to earn additional income or further reduce their electricity bill.
Furthermore, the installation of this type of system is simple and does not affect the hotel's activities during its execution, which is a great advantage to avoid operational stoppages.
Hotels around the world that are betting on solar energy
In recent years, we have seen notable examples emerge of hotels that have integrated renewable energy as part of their corporate philosophy and operating model.
In Norway, the Six Senses Svart Hotel, located above the Arctic Circle, stands out as the first energy-positive hotel. Not only does it generate its own electricity using solar panels, but it also reduces energy consumption by 85% compared to other similarly sized accommodations. This hotel also promotes zero-waste cuisine and the use of local ingredients, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability.
Another interesting example is the Slottsholmen on Water In Sweden, a floating hotel that generates four times more energy than it consumes thanks to its solar panels. It also has a solar-powered desalination plant, allowing it to produce drinking water from seawater. This installation not only supplies the hotel, but also its restaurant and luxury suites.
In Spain, the well-known chain MarSenses Hotels & Homes seeks to self-generate 100% of the energy consumed during daylight hours thanks to 1.220 photovoltaic panels installed in its hotels in Mallorca and Menorca. These panels also help reduce its air conditioning costs by acting as an insulating barrier against solar radiation.
How hotels help preserve the environment
Investing in renewable energy sources, such as solar energy, not only represents a financial saving for hotels, but also helps to preserve the natural environment. By reducing their dependence on fossil fuels, hotels are actively contributing to the fight against climate change.
In addition, different environmental certifications such as Bioscore Sustainability The efforts of establishments that adopt these sustainable policies are highlighted, which becomes an added value to attract an increasingly environmentally conscious public.
Through these actions, hotels not only educate their guests on the benefits of sustainability, but also generate a positive impact on local communities by promoting more responsible and environmentally friendly tourism.
The hotel sector, especially large projects, has an even greater responsibility in this energy transition due to its high consumption. The implementation of sustainable technologies and clean energies such as solar is key to ensuring a greener future for both the industry and the planet.
The rise of solar powered hotels demonstrates how large chains and luxury accommodations are leading the way towards more sustainable tourism. By integrating renewable energies and reducing their carbon footprint, they are not only achieving a positive impact on the environment, but also responding to a growing demand from travelers, who want to stay in places that are committed to caring for the planet.