Energy-saving potential of hotels in Uganda.

Abstract

Hotel energy consumption is influenced by several factors which include size, structure and design of the building (prevailing architectural / construction practices), geographical and climatic location, the age of the facility, the type of energy and water systems installed, the way these systems are operated and maintained, types and amounts of energy and water resources available locally, as well as energy-use regulations and cost. Operational factors include operating schedules for the different functional facilities in the hotel building, the number of facilities (restaurants, kitchens, in-house laundries, swimming pools and sports centers, business centers, etc.), services offered, fluctuation in occupancy levels, variations in customer preference relevant to indoor comfort, on-site energy conservation practices, as well as culture and awareness of resource consumption among personnel and guests. Energy efficiency opportunities are low-cost measures and cost- effective investments. There are many energy saving opportunities for lighting in hotel's guest rooms as well as the more obvious savings in lobbies and exterior lighting areas. Behaviour campaigns can yield substantial energy savings, both through the guests and housekeeper behaviour. This paper presents the energy efficiency guidelines and energy benchmarking for hotels. Also, a case study showing how the energy efficiency program implemented is presented.