HOW WE SAVE ENERGY AT THB HOTELS

Countless rooms and other spaces, an endless succession of people coming and going...energy efficiency is a major challenge for any hotel, but here at THB hotels  it is one of our core priorities.

We are clearly living in critical times, with constant warning signs of the impact human activity is having on our planet. It is therefore increasingly important to raise awareness of these problems and halt this unfortunate negative trend.

We are aware that hotels attract large numbers of visitors each year and therefore consume vast amounts of energy. Our goals are therefore to raise awareness of the need for conservation, optimise natural resources, minimise environmental impact, protect the environment and ensure a sustainable tourism industry, whilst at the same time offering THB hotels  guests first class standards of comfort at all times.

Our energy saving efforts are based on the following actions:

AIR CONDITIONING

This undoubtedly tops the list of energy consumption at hotels, and is also the area with the greatest potential for savings:

- We choose efficient air conditioning systems. This is a key factor when it comes to saving. We opt for high efficiency systems that are not powered by fossil fuels.

- We apply monitoring and adjustment systems. Modern air conditioning systems allow us to adjust a large number of variables, which means we can manage and control consumption.

- We have fitted presence or open window detectors. These sensors detect when a room is empty or a window is opened and automatically turn off the air conditioning, thereby avoiding unnecessary consumption.

LIGHTING

- LED lighting. In addition to allowing for major energy savings, this type of low energy lighting emits less heat and provides a clear, bright light. Another positive factor is that LED lights last much longer that traditional light bulbs and are also easy to install.

- Automated light management systems. Thanks to the presence or motion sensors, the lights can be turned off when rooms are empty.

- Light intensity adjustment. This enables users to adapt light intensity to their needs.

- Efficient use of daylight Nothing beats natural light, and its effective use has a greater impact than you would imagine.

INSULATION

This is a key factor in ensuring effective energy performance in buildings.

Insulation has constituted a focal point of the recent renovation projects in the chain’s hotels, including the following actions:

- Replacement of windows to reduce heat loss through the use of double glazing with an air chamber to prevent thermal bridging.

- Work on building exteriors. Exterior thermal insulation systems (ETIS) have been used to reinforce building façades. Applying expanded polystyrene (an insulation material) over the hotel’s outer cladding has allowed us to improve insulation and thermal conditions.

- Ongoing checks for cracks and leakage openings. Leaks and cracks can impact heavily on energy saving measures. Repairing these defects that appear over time guarantees greater energy efficiency.

WATER

The rational use of water is of particular importance in the case of swimming pools, spas and fitness centres, although it can also be applied to many other areas of a hotel. We therefore use tap aerators and solar energy as well as dual flush toilets.

AWARENESS

Represented by its ECO friendly brand, THB Hotels has set up an environmental policy that is transmitted to both guests and employees in order to ensure rational and responsible energy consumption.

Making sure that windows are kept closed whilst the air conditioning is on; checking that lights are turned off when they are not required; drawing the curtains; lowering blinds and awnings whenever possible to boost insulation; replacing towels and sheets at guests’ request; or making the most of natural light are all solutions that are easy to apply.