Guide shows tourism businesses how to save money and energy

A new practical guide for tourism businesses shows them simple ways to save energy and money - sometimes tens of thousands of dollars annually - using tips from their peers to inspire them, says Tourism Industry Association New Zealand (TIANZ) Chief Executive Tim Cossar.

Launched today, the guide is a joint initiative from TIANZ and the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA). It was developed as part of the Tourism Energy Efficiency Programme and features short case studies from operators around New Zealand who completed TEEP energy audits.

As Cossar explains "there's plenty of information around about improving energy efficiency, but we've found that businesses respond best when they see what's worked for other companies in their industry."

The short case studies featured in the guide range from small backpackers, holiday parks and hotels to an art gallery, a water theme park and one of New Zealand's largest tourism operators. Some of the tips are incredibly simple, for example turning off its computers at night will save one holiday park $700 annually.

Cossar adds "others require a more substantial investment of time and money, but deliver a corresponding increase in savings.

"One ferry operator found that replacing their vessel lights with more efficient lighting types would save it over $6,000 annually for a total cost of under $4,000."

Mike Underhill, Chief Executive of The Energy Efficiency & Conservation Authority adds "all companies can reduce overheads, gain competitive advantage and boost profits by improving their energy use. But energy efficiency has particular relevance for tourism, where customers demand a good environmental track record.

"The industry is further ahead than most in adopting energy efficiency - and if Kiwi operators take the action suggested in this guide they'll benefit from a stronger business and more satisfied customers. As it's our second biggest export earner, all New Zealanders benefit from a strong tourism sector. Many initiatives donât require huge outlay, and can start delivering to the bottom line from day one."

Cossar says the guide highlights how some of the biggest cost savings can be made simply by businesses ensuring they are on the most cost effective energy plan, adding "a resort discovered it could potentially cut $13,000 off their annual electricity bill if they changed their existing energy pricing plan and resolved incorrect charging from their lines company."

The guide also includes information about reducing fuel consumption and renewable energy sources and tips on how to get started when it comes to improving energy efficiency.

Cossar concludes "many New Zealand tourism operators are already very active when it comes to improving their environmental performance. They know it's good for their bottom line, is what travellers are increasingly demanding, and is good for the planet. This guide is designed to encourage more of them to take action. With Rugby World Cup 2011 only one year away, this is a great time to get an energy efficiency plan in place, show international visitors you're walking the green talk and reap the financial benefits."

As a further incentive, TIANZ members who can answer three questions based on information in the guide will go in the draw to win a Sharp 40" Quattron LED LCD TV.

Typically, an ENERGY STAR qualified television like the Sharp Quattron models can use up to 30% less electricity than a non-ENERGY STAR qualified model.

The guide, which includes information about where businesses can find more detailed advice and grants, is available on TIANZ's website at www.tianz.org.nz