Energy Conservation

The majority of energy used in hotel operations comes from Natural Gas and Electricity. Heating, cooling, lighting and operations of equipment represent the greatest opportunity for reduction of our impact on green house gas emissions.

We completed a large portion of an extensive lighting retrofit program by replacing bulbs with energy efficient florescent bulbs. We invested in a new steam boiler to power our in-house laundry operations drastically cutting electric usage. The control procedure for our snowmelt system was modified helping to reduce the usage of natural gas by 18%. Other operational changes include shutting off floor heat in guest rooms during non-winter months and maximizing times when pools and tubs remain covered.

Sonnenalp Resort of Vail has committed to a process that will identify and minimize the amount of natural gas and electricity used throughout the resort operations. Several specific areas throughout the resort have already been addressed. Through measuring of usage, enforcement of procedural changes, and investment in more efficient equipment, the usage of both commodities has been decreased 5% and 18% respectively on a year to year basis. Going forward we are partnering with institutions that help us audit our entire operation, provide benchmark data, and assist in developing best practices.