Solar Panels for Hotels
With the rise of energy costs and eco-tourism, hotels can’t afford not to go green!
In the race to reach net zero by 2040, set by UK hospitality with the Zero Carbon Forum, solar-powered hotels are a shining beacon of sustainability for the hospitality industry. Not only do hotels that install solar panels attract eco-conscious guests, but they also enjoy reduced electricity bills and a lower carbon footprint.
Benefits of Solar Panels for Hotels
Cost Savings
Between rising labour costs and a hike in utility expenses, it’s no surprise that 9 out of 10 UK hotels report an increase in running costs. In the meantime, the strain from a high cost of living has decreased what consumers are willing to pay, making it harder for hotels to fill rooms.
Thankfully, installing solar panels has the potential to reduce energy bills by up to 50%. Hotels can also enjoy cost-saving renewable energy initiatives such as:
- UK Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): An initiative that allows businesses to sell unused electricity back to the national grid.
- 0% VAT Initiative: Until March 2027, businesses can take advantage of investing in renewable energy solutions at 0% VAT rates.
Sustainability
With new sustainability regulations introduced by the UK government’s Environment Act 2021, the pressure is on for hotels to toe the eco line. New measures include sustainable waste management, the reduction of single-use plastics, and more efficient resource use. By installing solar panels, hotels can meet the energy efficiency part of the puzzle—and establish themselves as eco hotels in the process.
Competitive Advantage
Green tourism is taking the hospitality industry by storm, with environmentally conscious travellers willing to pay a premium for hotels that prioritise sustainable practices. In fact, according to Booking.Com’s 2024 Sustainable Travel report, 75% of travellers say that they want to travel more sustainably. This means that hotels with solar panels installed have a competitive advantage over those that do not.
Energy Independence
Unique stays, such as off-grid getaways, are popular for a reason. Travellers desire greater sustainability and the sensation that they have “unplugged” from their busy lives. On the other hand, they still want the convenience and comfort of lighting and heating. With the energy independence that solar panels bring, you can give them both. Greater energy independence will also give your hotel peace of mind, with solar power solutions continuing to provide reliable energy even if national grid outages occur.
Solar Panels for Hotels: A Case Study
Holiday Inn is a global chain of hotels offering a range of comfortable and affordable accommodation options.
Their site in Corby, UK, decided to install a solar power system with an aim to reduce utility costs and improve their carbon footprint. By partnering with Perfect Sense Energy, they achieved these goals with ease.
179 kWp
System size
30,000 kWh
Year 1 Generation
£4,230
Year 1 Savings
How Solar Panel Installation Works
- Site Survey: We assess how many solar panels your hotel needs and/or has capacity for, where they should be placed, and the amount of energy required.
- Design and Engineering: Based on the site survey, our dedicated team puts together a bespoke solar photovoltaic (PV) system tailored to the energy needs of the hotel.
- Permits and Approvals: We arrange and manage any permits required for solar system installation.
- Installation: Our team installs the solar system, adhering to strict health and safety guidelines and with minimal disruption to hotel guests.
- Testing and Commissioning: We ensure that your hotel’s solar panel installation is successfully producing energy.
- Maintenance and Monitoring: Perfect Sense Energy provides a maintenance and monitoring service to ensure that solar panels are kept clean and continue working efficiently for decades to come.
Hotel Solar Panels FAQs
Can UK hotels run entirely on solar power?
The darker nights in Winter make it difficult for UK hotels to obtain enough solar energy to match hotel energy requirements year-round. However, a hotel may be able to run almost entirely on solar power during brighter months.
Will installing solar panels disturb hotel guests?
Perfect Sense Energy ensures that solar panel installation is carried out on a pre-agreed timetable during quieter times to ensure that guests aren’t disturbed.
How much do solar panels for hotels cost?
A small hotel with an annual energy consumption of 50,000-100,000 kWp can expect to invest around £50,000 for a solar power system. For larger hotels with annual energy consumption upwards of 100,000kWp, a solar PV system will cost from £100,000-£200,000+.
