Energy Optimization In Hotels During Low Occupancy

All across the globe, in different types of buildings – from offices to hotels to retail spaces – have found themselves in a state of low occupancy, with some nearly deserted. For hotels, guaranteeing the safety and security of guests and staff is a top priority. But what about the way ahead?

There are a variety of questions spring up - 

• How do I maintain efficient energy usage?

• What systems are to be adjusted during low occupancy?

• What should I keep in mind when returning to normal?

To answer these pressing questions pertaining to energy management, keep the following pointers in mind - 

Take Stock Of All Your Assets 

You must account for and locate all heating, ventilation, cooling, and building automation assets. These include chillers, air handlers, boilers, fan coils, packaged terminal air conditioners (PTACs), rooftop units, boilers, and thermostats. These are the essential assets with a clear impact on both energy consumption and the building environment.

Analyse System Architecture 

Estimate which assets are linked to your building management system (BMS) or guest room energy management system (GREM) and which assets are stand-alone units - which means they would need manual control. For example, if your hotel or resort building has a BMS system that can regulate multiple rooms’ setpoints, it may be as easy as adjusting these centrally for all rooms. If room controls need local or manual adjustments, you will have to alter them one-by-one.

Adjust Kitchen Requirements 

It is important to not forget commercial kitchens and other spaces with fans and freezers. Kitchen apparatus and machinery are often set to run 24/7, hence continuing to run them will result in a huge waste of energy. With reduced food demands requirements, you can consider keeping your kitchen running at only 50%.

Variable Speed Drives 

With fixed drive motors, your hotel energy consumption will remain at one level irrespective of its output. Chillers with Variable Speed Drives and pumps can lower output by inheriting partial load conditions to lower amperage, which results in energy-saving. However you must note that some VSDs may not be connected to BMS, so you must control them manually.

Use Variable Frequency Drives In Pools 

Rate the pool at code-allowed minimum circulation rate if a variable frequency drive (VFD) is integrated with the pump. If you do not have a VFD, this is a sign for you to install one and work with a local utility on potential incentives. Only consider draining the pool if there are no other alternatives as hydrostatic pressure can result in damage when left empty for long periods of time.

Reduce Number of Elevators In Operation 

Work with your service provider to halt the functioning of 50% of your elevators. This should not pose much of a problem as the occupancy of your hotel is going to be significantly lower and operating excess elevators which just waste large amounts of energy.

Each hotel has its distinct qualities and therefore, opportunities for large amounts of savings in these tough times. The ideal way to make sure you do what’s right for your hotel is to work with specialised experts in building management. If you face uncertainty about doing this work, consult experts like #SchneiderElectric who are leading players in energy management. #LifeIsOn.

About This Author

Erric Ravi Erric Ravi is an entrepreneur & the founder of SEOexpertnow Joined: May 30th, 2018