EV’s: THE BENEFITS OF IMPROVING YOUR GUEST EXPERIENCE?

BY Nicola Young

The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) in the UK has been nothing short of remarkable. This surge in popularity is reflected in the expanding infrastructure for EV charging points across the country. There are now are estimated to be more than 400,000 including public, private and business charging points.

The hospitality industry in the UK has recognised the growing need for EV charging points, and many hotels, both large chains and independent establishments, have started to install charging points for their guests. The types of chargers available typically range from slow chargers (3-6kW), which are suitable for overnight charging, to fast (722kW) and rapid chargers (25-99kW), which can provide a substantial charge in a short period.

The installation of EV charging points in hotels involves several costs and considerations. The initial installation costs can vary widely depending on the type of charger, the location, and the specific requirements of the site.

The cost of installing a commercial electric car charging station starts from around £1,000 per socket. This cost includes the charger itself, the installation process, and warranty. However, the cost can increase significantly if the site requires additional electrical work or if there are complex installation requirements. Generally speaking, the cost of installing a standard fast charger can range from £1,000 to £2,500, while a rapid charger can cost between £10,000 and £30,000.

However, there is funding help available. The Workplace Charging Scheme provides vouchers to businesses to reduce the cost of installing charging points. As of March 2022, the scheme has been extended to include small accommodation businesses, making it more accessible for hotels to install charging points.

In Scotland, the Energy Saving Trust offers advice and support for businesses looking to install EV charging points. They can provide information on available grants and help businesses navigate the process of installing charging points.

Power supply and grid capacity can also be issues, particularly for hotels in remote locations and, on top of this, the UK’s grid was not designed to handle the significant increase in electricity demand that widespread EV adoption could bring. This could potentially lead to power outages or other issues if not properly managed. However, there are solutions to these challenges.

For example, smart charging systems can help manage electricity demand by charging EVs during off-peak hours or when there is excess renewable energy available.

Innovations such as solar-powered charging points and battery storage systems can also help overcome these challenges. For example, a study published in the journal “Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews” discusses the potential of using blockchain technology to facilitate peer-to-peer energy trading, which could help manage the demand for electricity from EV charging. This could involve using solar power and battery storage at the hotel to generate and store electricity, which could then be used to power EV charging points.

The future of EV charging is likely to see advancements in charging speed with the development of ultra-fast chargers. Macdonald hotels uses a combination of fast and rapid chargers across the hotel group’s properties and has worked with partner, EVC to provide guests and other customers easy access to charging stations for their EVs throughout their stay.

Wireless charging is also a potential trend, with some companies already developing technology that allows EVs to be charged by simply parking over a charging pad.

The guest experience is another important consideration when installing EV charging points in hotels. Guests should find the charging process to be convenient and straightforward. This could involve providing clear instructions on how to use the charging points, ensuring that the charging points are in a convenient location, and possibly offering services such as reservations for charging slots. Some hotels might also choose to offer free charging as a way to attract guests, while others might charge a fee for the service.

Integrating EV charging into the guest experience is a crucial aspect of tHe hospitality industry’s transition to a more sustainable future. Hotels are finding innovative ways to make this a seamless and enjoyable part of the guest’s stay.

For instance, the Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh offers a premium service to its guests by providing EV charging points. This not only caters to the needs of guests who own electric vehicles but also enhances the overall guest experience by promoting sustainable practices. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability and convenience is appreciated by guests, as evidenced by positive reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor, and sites like Booking.com allows you to filter hotels based on various amenities, including EV charging.

Similarly, the Bunchrew House Hotel in Inverness, a 17th-century Scottish mansion turned four-star country house hotel, offers both Tesla and non-Tesla electric car charging points on-site. This service is part of the hotel’s broader commitment to sustainability and is a valued amenity for guests.

While Dakota at Eurocentral has upped its number of charging points to more than 20.

The role of EV charging in guest satisfaction and loyalty cannot be overstated. As more people switch to electric vehicles, the demand for EV charging points in hotels will only increase.

In terms of benefits, offering EV charging points can also give hotels a competitive edge. It’s an attractive feature for the growing number of EV drivers, who would prefer to stay at a hotel where they can charge their vehicle. It also aligns with the environmental values of many travellers today, enhancing the hotel’s reputation as a sustainable choice. Furthermore, it can even provide an additional revenue stream if the hotel decides to charge for the use of the charging points.

The ability to offer EV charging facilities, can also encourage longer stays, as guests may choose to stay overnight while their vehicle charges. and if hotels include a range of chargers to accommodate different EV models and charging speeds all the better.

As we can see, the importance of EV charging points in hotels is multifaceted. From an environmental perspective, they contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions by promoting the use of electric vehicles. From a business standpoint, they offer a competitive advantage, attracting a growing segment of eco-conscious consumers and potentially encouraging longer stays. They also align with government incentives and plans, making it a strategic move for hotels.

Looking ahead, the future of EV charging in hotels seems promising. With advancements in charging technology and government plans for infrastructure expansion, hotels have the opportunity to be at the forefront of this transition.

In conclusion, the integration of EV charging points in hotels is a significant step towards a more sustainable future. It’s an investment in the environment, in guest satisfaction, and in the long-term success of the hotel..

Enhance your guests' experience and elevate your establishment's reputation by partnering with Walter Geering. As a leading supplier to UK hotels, holiday parks, and accommodation providers, we specialise in eco-friendly toiletries, welcome packs, and guest amenities. With our commitment to sustainability and a focus on quality, we offer a range of luxurious products that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. By choosing Walter Geering as your trusted partner in hospitality supplies, you'll not only enhance the guest experience but also demonstrate your dedication to environmental responsibility.

Together, let's create unforgettable moments and exceed customer expectations.