Rezidor targets 25% reduction of hotel energy consumption by 2016

The operator of the Radisson Blu, Park Inn by Radisson and Hotel Missoni brands has set the target as part of a Think Planet initiative across all its hotels in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Hotel habits

Inge Huijbrechts, director of responsible business at Rezidor, said: "Think Planet reinforces Rezidor's position as one of the industry leaders in terms of sustainability. Many of our hotels have already introduced progressive, environmentally friendly measures - now we are spreading these initiatives into all our properties and focus on key energy-saving investments that will have the biggest impact."

A company-wide energy audit has resulted in a plan listing the company's top priorities.

In hotel operations, the Think Planet initiative focuses on creating 'smart energy habits' like switching off lights and equipment, turning heating and cooling to eco-mode and reporting energy-related issues that need attention quickly as well as preventive maintenance.

Other tools which will be utilised by Rezidor as it looks to cut energy use in its hotels include:

• Daylight and motion sensors for lighting
• Condensation water recuperation from air-conditioning
• Alarms on freezers
• Energy-efficient lighting in all hotels Variable extraction systems in the hotel kitchens
• Staff engagement through audio and video training

Carbon taxation

Huijbrechts said he expected each of the initiatives to deliver a return on investment within seven years while Wolfgang M. Neumann, executive vice president and chief operating officer at Rezidor, explained the benefits of the programme would be more than simply cutting energy and developing responsible business practices.

"At the same time, we are currently faced with significantly rising energy costs in many countries, along with government carbon taxation. Moving forward, reducing our energy consumption will also contribute to maximizing our profits," he said.