Energy company SolarSaver has successfully completed a solar installation at the Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch and the African Pride Hotel, both of which are based in the Melrose Arch precinct in Gauteng.

Owing to the limited available roof space for solar panel installation, SolarSaver collaborated with property developer Amdec Group to find a solution.

The companies decided to use pergola structures that are designed to carry the load and accommodate the specific size parameters of solar panels, which were built above the roof structure of each hotel.

Since the 1 231 kW solar system’s commissioning in October last year, the hotels have been able to significantly reduce their operational costs through lower electricity bills, as well as lower their carbon footprints.

"We are committed to delivering bespoke solar solutions that cater to our clients' unique needs. By using the purpose-built pergola structures built by Melrose Arch, we've found a practical way to overcome space constraints while retaining the aesthetic appeal of the hotel's outdoor spaces,” comments SolarSaver sales head Lance Green.

The solar project aligns with the broader sustainability goals of both the Marriot Hotel group and the Amdec Group, reinforcing their status as leaders in environmental stewardship within the hospitality and commercial sectors.

The Marriott Hotel group also uses refuse recycling, energy efficient appliances, water-saving devices, building management systems and a centralised district cooling facility to conserve natural resources.

These latest solar installations add to SolarSaver’s portfolio of 16 systems totalling 3 281 kW within Melrose Arch.

The installations are managed through SolarSaver’s rent-to-own model where SolarSaver retains ownership and responsibility for the operation and maintenance of the solar PV systems.

Clients in the Melrose Arch precinct benefit from this arrangement through a 20-year power purchase agreement and paying only for the green energy produced.

Green says the successful completion of the latest projects is testament to SolarSaver’s innovative approach to overcoming obstacles related to space and aesthetics and adds to its role of promoting renewable-energy adoption across South Africa.

“Growing energy demand, a lack of grid reliability and spiralling costs make energy efficiency and a consistent power supply a real priority as a critical component of overall business profitability.  

“With all our available sunshine, South African businesses can easily be on par with the greenest, most energy efficient buildings around the world,” Green concludes.