Presently the largest hybrid Photovoltaic and Thermal (PVT) project installed in Cape Town, the system provides the luxury hotel and residences with both heat and electricity.
“Sustainability is embedded into Marriott International’s business strategy, from design to guest experience,” said Francois Steyn, Hotel Portfolio Manager, Spear Property Group, the owners of the hotel. “Having sustainable management of our energy and water as one of our development pillars, the Solarus system is a perfect solution for us to obtain maximum impact from our rooftop.”
As a certified B (benefit) corporation Solarus embraces Marriott International’s strategy to minimize their footprint and integrate sustainable business practices.
“It is a fact that hotels need a great deal of hot water, thus the choice for a Solarus system, which produces both heat and electricity, is very beneficial, both in terms of a reduction in fossil fuels and a reduction in the hotels’ operating costs,” René Laks, Managing Director for Solarus in South Africa, explained. “Over a 20-year period, this installation will save the hotel approximately ZAR 24.5 million (€1.5 million).”
Solarus’ partner in solar and the EPC company for the installation was South African-based New Southern Energy.
