voco Zeal Exeter Science Park, the UK's first lifecycle net-zero carbon hotel, has achieved a BREEAM Outstanding rating at the design stage, scoring 89.2%. This marks a significant milestone in sustainable hospitality, showcasing Zeal Hotels' commitment to environmental responsibility.
The hotel, developed by Zeal Hotels, is designed to operate entirely on renewable energy. It features vertical solar panels from Solarlab as a complete rainscreen cladding system, a UK first. These panels, along with other sustainable design elements, enable the hotel to generate more electricity than it consumes annually.
In line with the UK's 2050 carbon neutrality targets, the hotel adopts a 'fabric-first' approach, minimising energy demand through passive-house principles. It also utilises adiabatic cooling and reversible heat pumps to further reduce energy usage. The building's embodied carbon is offset upon opening, aligning with the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard.
The project is managed by Valor Hospitality and constructed by RED Construction South West. SCS provided environmental and sustainability consultancy services throughout the BREEAM certification process.
Zeal Hotels' Managing Director, Tim Wheeldon, expressed pride in the project's achievements, stating, “We are thrilled to have reached this milestone on the road towards completing our first net zero carbon hotel.” Simon Lousada, property developer and investor, highlighted the project's role in combating climate change, noting, “This project represents more than just a building; it symbolises our dedication to sustainable development and responsible tourism.”
The hotel's location at Exeter Science Park, adjacent to Junction 29 of the M5 motorway and less than a mile from Exeter Airport, positions it as a hub for business and leisure travellers seeking sustainable accommodation options.
People & Companies:
Dr Sally Basker – Chief Executive of Exeter Science Park
Tim Wheeldon – Managing Director of Zeal Hotels
Simon Lousada – Property Developer and Investor
Derek Quinn – Managing Director of RED Construction South West
Joanna Kurowska – VP, Managing Director UK & Ireland at IHG Hotels & Resorts
Lee Pickersgill – Energy Manager at Valor Hospitality
Zeal Hotels – Developer and owner of voco Zeal Exeter Science Park
IHG Hotels & Resorts – Operator of the voco brand
Valor Hospitality – Management company for the hotel
RED Construction South West – Construction partner
SCS – Environmental and sustainability consultants
Solarlab – Provider of vertical photovoltaic panels
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