Nearly Zero Energy Hotels in a Mediterranean Area: a New Economic Approach

The renovations of existing hotels towards nearly Zero Energy (NZEB) are one of the forefront goal of EU's energy policy to reach in 2050. The achievement of NZEB target for Hotels, is necessary not only for complying with changing regulations and legislations but also for being competitive, taking advantage of emerging funding opportunities. Indeed, the NZEB Hotels status allow reducing operating costs, increasing energy security, standing up to the expectations of market and guests. This paper presents the case study of the energy retrofit of an existing historical hotel located in south Italy (Syracuse) in order to achieve NZEB status. Starting from the energy audit the paper proposes a step by step approach until NZEB status with a perspective on the costs, in order to identify the most effective energy solutions. Such approach allows highlighting useful insights regarding energy and economic-financial strategies for achieving the NZEB.