IHG Hotels & Resorts has opened its first “net zero” branded property, which has been designed to operate entirely on renewable and solar energy.
Plans for Voco Zeal Exeter Science Park in southwest England were first announced two years ago. The 142-room hotel has been developed through a partnership with Zeal Hotels and Valor Hospitality.
The property has achieved an “outstanding” rating from sustainable building certification body BREEAM for initiatives such as using low-carbon concrete in its construction and installing reversible heat pumps to reduce energy use.
The hotel’s facilities include a restaurant and bar featuring a menu that utilises locally sourced ingredients, as well as a gym, gardens, meeting space and 12 charging points for electric vehicles.
Joanna Kurowska, IHG’s managing director for UK & Ireland, said: “With a growing number of travellers seeking responsible travel options, we are delighted to open Voco Zeal Exeter Science Park.
“The hotel will bring a new sustainable hotel offer to our UK portfolio and build on our commitment to provide exceptional experiences for our guests.
“Voco Zeal Exeter Science Park helps set the standards for net zero carbon hotels and marks a pivotal step towards a more sustainable future in hospitality.”
Tim Wheeldon, who co-founded Zeal Hotels in 2012 with the mission of developing sustainable hotels, praised the team working on the Exeter property for bringing “the Zeal Hotels vision to fruition”.
“The decision to build our net zero hotel reflects our commitment to combating climate change and reducing our carbon footprint,” added Wheeldon.
“By harnessing renewable energy sources, implementing energy-efficient designs and utilising innovative technology, we have created a space that not only provides comfort and luxury but also prioritises environmental responsibility.”
IHG launched Voco Hotels in 2018 and it is currently the company’s fastest growing premium brand, with 29 properties now open in Europe and another 20 in the pipeline for the next three to five years.