What role does energy supply play in the sustainable hospitality industry?

Florian Henle: The energy supply for heating, ventilation, air conditioning and electrical appliances has a significant and growing impact on operating costs and emissions in the hotel sector. According to DEHOGA, energy costs often account for between five and ten per cent of turnover. The practical advantage is that, with the right measures, both can be reduced at the same time. Addressing sustainable energy supply is therefore a responsible course of action, both economically and in terms of its impact on the climate.

What are the basic tips for a cost- and climate-conscious energy supply for hotels?

Florian Henle: First and foremost, efficient energy use is crucial to ensuring that we only use as much energy as is necessary. The simplest way to achieve this is through energy-efficient appliances, ranging from lighting, kitchen appliances and washing machines, and so on, right through to energy-efficient heating and climate control systems. The efficiency of individual appliances and systems can be improved by connecting them via energy management systems. Finally, depending on energy requirements, there are various green electricity tariffs and special offers that can help reduce energy costs. The practical advantage of switching to genuine green energy is that it requires no investment to save tonnes of CO₂. And for those who are able to invest, solar panels and charging infrastructure are definitely worth considering. Here at Polarstern, we also support businesses in equipping their car parks with charging infrastructure or installing solar panels on their large roofs.

Are all green tariffs equally good?

Florian Henle: No. Neither ‘green electricity’ nor ‘green gas’ are protected terms. To genuinely support the energy transition, it is important that the supplier also supports the expansion of renewable energy sources for every kilowatt-hour. After all, we need much more renewable energy to protect the climate. And particularly when it comes to heating, very few tariffs are actually based on 100 per cent green energy, even though this is where most emissions are generated. Here at Polarstern, we offer various gas tariffs that are always based entirely on waste and residual materials or plant-based resources, as well as special tariffs for heat pumps and PV systems, amongst other things.

In your view, what other measures would be worthwhile for hotels?

Florian Henle: A combination of self-generated electricity and electricity from the grid is particularly cost-effective. In other words, the classic combination of solar power and solar thermal energy, which meets part of your energy needs. When intelligently integrated, this can lead to significant savings. Similarly, the electricity generated can be used not only for electrical appliances, but also for space heating and cooling, as well as for charging infrastructure.

Which systems work best together depends, amongst other things, on energy requirements. For smaller hotels, solar panels and heat pumps often make a good combination. For larger buildings, solar panels and combined heat and power (CHP) units are sometimes a good choice.

Do you have any extra tips?

Florian Henle: Setting up charging infrastructure can bring many benefits, for example when public charging points are installed alongside the charging infrastructure for overnight guests. On the one hand, this enables hotels to generate additional revenue through charging fees or by offering attractive deals to day visitors; on the other hand, being listed in charging apps and directories helps hotels gain greater visibility.