Small energy changes could equal big savings for hospitality industry, says Npower

Hotel and restaurant owners across the UK could significantly reduce their energy use by making simple changes to the way they run their business, according to energy giant Npower. The advice comes after this week saw the first-ever Energy Saving Week run by by the firm. In partnership with Quality in Tourism, the assessment service for accommodation providers, Npower’s first such event for the tourism industry will provide advice and tips on how business can better manage their energy, to help increase revenue and probability. Representing the fourth largest industry in Britain, the annual energy costs for the hospitality sector is in excess of £1.3bn. Heating alone can account for more than 40% of energy use in non-domestic buildings and energy used in catering accounts for between 4-6% of operating profit, according to the Carbon Trust. Businesses could save up to 20% of energy on heating by implementing measures such as regular boiler maintenance , and providing energy management training to staff could reduce energy use by up to 30%. Phil Scholes, SME markets director at Npower, said: “Businesses in the tourism industry have the opportunity to increase their profits by reducing energy use, and it doesn’t have to be at the expense of a quality experience. “In fact, it can mean businesses create a more comfortable environment for guests and better customer satisfaction. For example, ensuring heating, cooling and lighting are working at optimal levels will increase customer comfort, and help keep energy use low.” Neil Quigley, managing director of Quality in Tourism, added: “Tourism and hospitality businesses make a large contribution to our economy, but they still face challenges in remaining profitable in the current environment. Knowing how to manage energy consumption is one way these valued businesses can reduce their operating costs and grow further.”