Question 1

What is a good energy cost per guest night for a resort?

Accepted Answer

This varies significantly based on climate, resort type (e.g., ski vs. beach), and local energy prices. However, a general benchmark for a mid-range US hotel is often cited as being between $4 to $7. Luxury resorts with more amenities will be higher, while limited-service or highly efficient properties can be lower.

Question 2

What are the biggest energy consumers in a typical resort?

Accepted Answer

The largest consumers are typically: 1. HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), which can account for 40-50% of energy use. 2. Water Heating for guest rooms, laundry, and kitchens. 3. Lighting, especially in common areas. 4. Kitchen and Laundry Equipment.

Question 3

How can we reduce energy costs without major capital investment?

Accepted Answer

Start with low-cost or no-cost initiatives. This includes creating an energy-aware culture through staff training, performing regular preventative maintenance on equipment (like cleaning HVAC filters), adjusting thermostat set-points in common areas, and ensuring all lighting is switched to high-efficiency LEDs.

Question 4

Does guest behavior really make a difference in energy consumption?

Accepted Answer

Yes, significantly. Guests control the lighting, thermostat, and electronics in their rooms. Many hotels are implementing guest engagement programs, such as offering loyalty points for forgoing housekeeping for a day (which saves on laundry and vacuuming energy) or using smart thermostats that adjust to an energy-saving mode when the room is unoccupied.

Question 5

What is the typical ROI for energy-efficient upgrades like solar panels or new HVAC?

Accepted Answer

The Return on Investment (ROI) varies greatly. For a large-scale project like a new HVAC system, the payback period might be 5-10 years, but it provides long-term, significant savings. For simpler projects like an LED lighting retrofit, the payback period is often much faster, typically 1-3 years, making it one of the most popular starting points for energy efficiency projects.

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Understanding Energy Cost Per Guest Night

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