Hilton Will Soon Open The First Net-Zero Hotel In US With Renewable Power

Hotel Marcel New Haven, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is slated to become the United State’s first net-zero emissions hotel. 

Located in Connecticut, the pioneering project will rely on renewable solar power sources to fuel the electricity needed to run the hotel, including to light its 165 guest rooms, restaurants, meeting rooms, and suites. 

Using entirely no fossil fuels, the Hotel Marcel New Haven will be designated as the first Passive House-certified hotel in the country, and one of a small group of establishments that have been granted platinum certification by the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). 

According to the brand, the innovative idea was dreamed up by lead architect Bruce Redman Becker of Becker + Becker, who had purchased the building—which is listed on the State and National Register of Historic Places—with the intention of transforming it from its original use as a rubber factory in the 1970s. 

“We are all responsible for confronting the climate crisis, and that sense of obligation factored into every decision we made in creating Hotel Marcel New Haven,” Becker explained.

“The opening of this revolutionary hotel, which is giving new life to a New Haven landmark, is a momentous occasion for travelers, the industry, and the planet,” Becker added. 

In addition to using clean energy sources, part of the building was built using repurposed materials, such as by upcycling light fixtures and restored wood-paneled walls that previously featured in the rubber company’s offices and conference rooms. 

Furthermore, by using a power-over-ethernet lighting system, the hotel will reduce its energy use by over 30%, and special tweaks made to its interior temperate control and air quality will result in it using significantly less energy per square foot than typical hotels. 

Of course, guests will get to enjoy eco-friendly perks, including 12 Tesla superchargers and universal level-two chargers to juice up their electric vehicles on the go. 

Plus, BLDG (pronounced “building”), the hotel’s restaurant, will offer locally-sourced items and organic wines on its extensive menu. Not only is its kitchen powered by electricity instead of natural gas, but it also taps on a specially-designed system that produces more precise and even heat for chefs. 

“Hotel Marcel New Haven will connect travelers with the New Haven area while inspiring them to incorporate sustainability into every aspect of their stay. We look forward to celebrating this new and exciting chapter for this unique landmark with our guests,” remarked Jenna Hackett, Global Brand Head of Tapestry Collection by Hilton. 

If you’re in the area, be sure to place your reservations when the all-electric establishment opens its doors on May 19, 2022. 

[via Business Traveller and Hilton / Business Wire, cover image via Hotel Marcel New Haven, Tapestry Collection by Hilton / Andres Orozco]