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The President Hotel, one of Africa’s largest Green Key certified establishments, has announced a R15 million investment in renewable energy infrastructure as part of its #StayGreen commitment to environmental sustainability and energy security.

The President Hotel continues to demonstrate its dedication to the environment, with its newest initiative aligning perfectly with global sustainability awareness. The timing of this installation coincides with Zero Emissions Day (21 September), setting the stage for what promises to be a milestone month in the hotel's sustainability journey.

The President Hotel, supported by AOCon Consulting Engineers, has partnered with Forest Energy to advance its long-term sustainability objectives. This collaboration is designed to reduce environmental impact while aligning with global best practices in sustainable operations.

For this project, the hotel will be deploying the latest Hybrid SigenStack technology, incorporating a 1.2 MWh gateway and 1.2 MWh battery storage to reduce the hotel's peak load and provide backup during grid outages. To further enhance energy independence, a 140 kWp solar PV ballast system will be installed on the rooftop.

In a unique hospitality industry initiative, the inverter and battery systems will be housed in a specially designed viewing area in the hotel's first-floor garage, where guests can observe the technology in action. A dedicated display screen will provide real-time data on solar production, hotel consumption and battery levels, offering visitors insight into the hotel's #StayGreen sustainability efforts.

The environmental benefits include preventing 145 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually (equivalent to planting 4325 trees) and eliminating 9000 litres of diesel consumption during power outages. The installation will generate approximately 20% of the hotel's power requirements while providing backup power during load shedding.

The system features Sigenergy's advanced SigenStack technology with six-layer battery protection and highly accurate fire suppression systems, ensuring reliable operation with minimal maintenance. The installation positions the hotel to reduce its environmental footprint and maintain full operations during load shedding, setting an example for the hospitality sector.

"Over the past decade, The President Hotel has consistently invested in sustainable initiatives, and we're incredibly proud to reach this significant milestone in our environmental journey. We are stepping up our sustainability initiatives and were one the first hotels in Africa to receive Green Key certification. Now implementing this solar project, we're positioning ourselves as leaders in sustainable hospitality and aligning perfectly with Cape Town Tourism's vision of creating a sustainable hospitality environment for tourism. I'm personally thrilled to be part of this exciting journey," says Jeremy Clayton, the hotel's Managing Director.

The system goes live by early October, coinciding with the reopening of the hotel's renovated poolside area featuring lush local landscaping, a new kids' play area and revamped Deck Bar. The launch timing is particularly meaningful as it also mark Energy Efficiency Day (1 October).