Making Solar Work for Hospitality Businesses in Northern Ireland
In the competitive world of hospitality, reducing running costs while standing out on booking platforms is more important than ever. At Encom, we recently helped a luxury 12-bedroom guest house in Portrush do exactly that.
During a full renovation, the client came to us early in the design process. They needed a smart solution that would lower energy bills, increase resilience and enhance their sustainability credentials. We delivered a bespoke 16kW islanded solar system with integrated battery storage, designed to meet the needs of a high-demand property with round-the-clock energy usage.
Let’s break down the key questions business owners often ask and how this installation answered each one.
Can a guest house really benefit from solar panels?
Yes, especially those with high energy usage.
Properties like hotels and guest houses run 24/7, with heavy demand on heating, lighting, hot water and appliances. In this Portrush project, we installed a 16kW solar PV system tailored to the needs of a busy hospitality setting. By capturing solar energy throughout the day and storing excess power in a large battery unit, the guest house now relies far less on expensive grid electricity.
How Encom Helps:
We work closely with hospitality clients to design solar and battery systems that fit their unique usage patterns, helping them achieve the best possible return on investment.
What does an ‘islanded’ solar system mean?
An islanded solar system is one that can operate independently of the grid during a power outage. For our client, this means guests won’t be left in the dark during a power cut, a major advantage for both comfort and reputation.
How Encom Helps:
We provide advanced system designs with full backup functionality, giving hospitality businesses peace of mind and uninterrupted service.
How does going solar improve booking visibility?
In this case, installing a solar and battery system helped the guest house qualify for Green Tourism certification, an industry-recognised mark of sustainability. Properties with this badge are prioritised on many online booking platforms and appeal to eco-conscious travellers.
How Encom Helps:
We support clients through the process of achieving sustainability goals and can help your property meet the criteria for Green Tourism or other environmental accreditations.
Will solar power actually reduce my business costs?
Absolutely. With energy prices on the rise, generating your own electricity can significantly lower your monthly bills. In a high-demand building like this one, the savings stack up quickly, especially with a battery system storing energy for evening use.
How Encom Helps:
We provide a detailed cost-benefit analysis for every project and design systems that deliver real-world savings, not just theoretical ones.
Is it worth speaking to Encom during the design phase?
Yes and this project proves it. By getting involved early, we were able to future-proof the energy system and avoid costly retrofits. The result? A seamless installation that fits beautifully with the building’s renovation and long-term operational needs.
How Encom Helps:
Whether you’re at the planning stage or upgrading an existing property, Encom can help design an energy system that works for you now and in the future.
Ready to power your hospitality business with solar?
We’ve worked with clients across Northern Ireland to reduce energy bills, boost sustainability and increase booking appeal. Let us help you do the same.
📞 UK: 028 9538 0910
📞 ROI: 01 575 9805