A hotel’s “Green Initiative” for a sustainable hospitality sector in Cebu

CEBU CITY – Seda Central Bloc, a Cebu-based hotel located at the IT Park in Lahug is embarking on a “Green Initiative” Solar Panel project to power its essential facilities from the hotel’s 12^th to 17^th floors and to contribute to a sustainable hospitality.

"We are excited about this significant stride in our journey towards sustainable hospitality. This investment not only aligns with our commitment to environmental responsibility but also reflects our dedication to providing efficient and green solutions for our guests," Ron Manalang, General Manager of Seda Central Bloc Cebu said in his opening statement during the launching of the “Green Initiative” at the hotel’s Straight Up Bar & Restaurant on January 31 this year.

Manalang said that the installations of solar panels not only lessen the hotel’s carbon footprint but also demonstrates its commitment to embodying its eco-friendly principles within the hospitality sector. Through the adoption of solar energy, Seda Central Bloc aspires to foster positive change and build a sustainable legacy in the hospitality industry.

Seda Central Bloc Cebu’s Energy Conservation Officer and Engineering Manager, Engr. Alfie Dalapo bared that with the introduction of this outstanding 53 KWP (kilowatt peak) solar panel system using cutting-edge Japanese, the first hotel in the Seda Hotels chain to do so.

Dalapo added that this green approach technology can significantly reduce the hotel's environmental impact by offsetting harmful emissions from carbon dioxide consumption from LPG and generator usage during brownouts. This solar panel system mitigates an equivalent of 36.6 tons of carbon dioxide annually.

“The environmental benefits for the hotel include zero emission, avoid 36.6 tons of CO2 per year, which is an equivalent to approximately 7,000 trees to be planted and power approximately 4,000 units of SW LED bulbs.  The Green Initiative actually saves the hotel some P53,300 every month which can be used for other staff benefits,” Dalapo noted.

According to Dalapo, the “Green Initiative” solar panel covers an impressive 100 square meters of roof space, the solar panel system fulfills daytime energy demands, powering essential facilities from the hotel’s 12th to the 17th floors and the system ensures seamless energy conversion, with efficient online monitoring that enables real-time tracking and optimization of energy production through its HUAWEI inverter system.

The Green Initiative system capacity is at 53kwp with 98 modules/pieces with a surface area of 100sqm in a 1-50kw. The solar panels are monocrystalline, 550W, Japan Technology described as Tier 1 Brand with a 25-year performance warranty with 0.5% annual degeneration, Dalapo revealed.

AyalaLand Hotels and Resorts Group Director of Engineering, Chief Engr. Efren Rodrigo also bared that this initiative is an extension of Ayala Corporation’s Green Energy Option Program (GEOP) initiated in December 2022 to go on a 100% LED lights. 

“This is just the beginning, we are moving forward with expansion for additional panels for the available roof space of the hotel and 24/7 sustainability with battery storage, which will power chillers for the hotel’s sustainable food supply.  Savings from this Green Initiative” will be allocated for the hotel’s MALASAKIT CSR program,” Rodrigo said.

Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama who graced the event, commended Seda Central Bloc’s “Green Initiative” and hopes that all hotels in Cebu do the same for sustainable future in the hospitality sector.

The “Green Initiative” launch on January 31 was attended by Seda Central Bloc Cebu Executives and special guests from Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB), Cebu City Mayor’s Office and some media. (Photos: MBCNewman)