The hospitality industry is emerging as a leader in the transition to renewable energy, joining a growing number of commercial and industrial units in India with high power consumption that are turning to green energy. This shift is helping businesses lower energy costs while significantly reducing their carbon emissions.

Nashik-based Grape County Eco Resorts & Spa has installed a 183 kW ground-mounted solar system, which fully meets its energy needs. The off-grid system, installed at a cost of ₹ 9.1 million (~$105,695), generates 174,000 units of power a year.

Says Tejas Chavan, Director of the 20-acre resort and spa, “To co-exist with nature is our guiding philosophy.”

The resort no longer relies on the grid for its electricity needs, thanks to the solar installation.

Switching to solar energy has not only helped the resort reduce its carbon emissions but has also saved electricity costs. “Switching to solar energy has helped us save around ₹2.9 million (~$33,683) annually,” says Chavan.

Adjoining the resort was a barren land, which they have transformed into a 300-acre biodiversity park. “The core of our functioning is centered around nature. Our commitment to everything nature-friendly can be seen in our ambition to always look for innovative and sustainable options. Keeping our vision alive, opting for solar energy was an obvious choice.”

Sauryouth Energy, the project installer, highlighted the various issues they faced during the installation.

“The modules used in the project were mono PERC half-cut. A unique aspect of the project was the terrain. It was rocky and uneven at times, and we had to engineer a special mounting structure that would suit the terrain and also withstand 180 km/h of wind speed,” said Yugandhar Tupe, CEO of Sauryouth Energy.

“We also utilized their parking space to install solar panels. They generate energy and also provide shade to the vehicles parked. We had to keep innovating to suit the terrain of the resort and biodiversity park.”

Many hotels and resorts have made the switch to solar energy. One of India’s most well-known IHCL-owned hotels in Mumbai, like The Taj Mahal Palace, Taj Land’s End, and Taj Wellington Mews, announced that it will source 60% of its requirement from renewable energy.

If you are looking for expert advice on switching to clean energy, Mercom India C&I Clean Energy Meets are a must-attend.  These events aim to provide a platform with knowledge and the tools to help C&I buyers adopt clean energy. Solar solution providers, equipped with the technology and financial mechanisms, will be present to assist C&I consumers transition to clean energy.

The last event was held on March 7, 2025 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The next meet will be held on April 17, 2025 in Mumbai, Maharashtra.