Case Study: Water-saving measures implemented in a Spanish City Hotel

Case Study: Water-saving measures implemented in a Spanish City Hotel

A hotel in Zaragoza, Spain implemented a range of water-saving measures, including the installation of efficient taps and showerheads, to reduce water and energy consumption across guest areas.

Case Study: Water-saving measures implemented in a Spanish City Hotel

What was the intervention?

  • The hotel upgraded its bathrooms with water-saving taps and shower systems.

  • The investment ranged from €2,000 to €14,000, depending on the number and type of fixtures installed throughout the property.

Results

  • Overall water use dropped by 21.5%, with:

    • 17.6% reduction in cold water usage

    • 33.2% reduction in hot water usage

  • Water consumption per guest per day fell from 321 litres to 252 litres, a notable improvement in operational efficiency.

  • The hotel achieved annual savings of up to €12,000 on combined water and energy bills.

  • Thanks to lower utility costs, the hotel recouped its initial investment in just 1 to 2 years, demonstrating the financial viability of the upgrades alongside environmental benefits.

Key Findings

  • Installing water-efficient fixtures can result in immediate reductions in resource use without compromising guest comfort.

  • The reduction in hot water use led to considerable energy savings, amplifying the financial return.

This case highlights a compelling combination of sustainability, cost savings, and fast payback, making it an attractive model for other hotels.

Source: Barberán et. al., 2013