Net zero hotel opens in Exeter

The group said the Voco Zeal Exeter Science Park, which achieved a BREAAM Outstanding rating, was the first building in the UK to use Solarlab vertical photovoltaic panels as a rainscreen cladding system. It follows the Passivhaus standard for ultra-low energy buildings, and uses heat-reversible heat pumps to reduce energy usage.

Materials using during the construction of the hotel, which IHG has opened in partnership with Zeal Hotels and Valor Hospitality, included Ecocrete, a low-carbon concrete.

The hotel has 12 electric vehicle charging points and an on-site restaurant and bar that emphasise the use of locally sourced ingredients.

Tim Wheeldon, founding director of Zeal Hotels, said: “It has been more than a decade since we founded Zeal Hotels, with the intention of helping the hotel sector be net zero carbon by 2050.

“The decision to build our net zero hotel reflects our commitment to combating climate change and reducing our carbon footprint. 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.

“We are looking forward to sharing our knowledge with others to help accelerate the net zero carbon process across the sector.”