AI can reduce energy consumption in hotels by up to 30%, potentially lowering both costs and carbon emissions. According to Donatas Karčiauskas, CEO of Exergio, AI-based energy performance tools enable hotels to manage energy use more efficiently without the need for retrofitting. These systems, which adjust energy usage in real-time based on variables such as occupancy and weather, align with the increasing demand for sustainability in the hospitality sector.
The World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance reports that up to 60% of a hotel’s carbon emissions stem from systems like heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), and lighting. AI platforms can optimize these systems, improving sustainability while maintaining guest comfort. Karčiauskas highlights that hotels face unique challenges in balancing energy demand and guest comfort, particularly with fluctuating occupancy rates. AI tools can address this by adjusting energy usage dynamically, reducing waste.
Additionally, AI systems are capable of predicting maintenance needs, minimizing disruptions caused by unexpected equipment failures. Karčiauskas noted that predictive maintenance, particularly for HVAC and lighting systems, is a crucial benefit for hotels, as it helps avoid costly downtime that can affect guest experience.
Exergio, while primarily focused on commercial buildings such as offices and shopping centers, has applied its expertise in energy management to the hospitality sector. In one project in Poznan, Poland, the company’s AI platform achieved a 20% reduction in energy waste over nine months in an office building, translating to significant financial savings. Similar results are expected in hotels, which rank high in energy-saving potential according to a recent JLL report.
As the hospitality industry faces growing pressure from regulators and consumers to adopt sustainable practices, AI-driven energy solutions are becoming more central. Karčiauskas emphasized that these systems will continue to evolve, integrating seamlessly with other hotel technologies to optimize operations. AI is expected to play a key role in helping hotels balance sustainability, operational efficiency, and guest satisfaction in the future.
