The project, installed by renewable technology specialists SHEco, comprises 120 of Naked Energy’s VirtuHOT collectors, which provide sanitary hot water for the hotel’s 181 luxury guest rooms and suites, award-winning restaurants, and spa. The system is expected to generate 39,747kWh of renewable heat annually, resulting in a 7.3 tonne reduction in carbon emissions each year – equivalent to the annual carbon sequestration of over 292 mature trees.

VirtuHOT is different from traditional solar PV systems in that it operates at the grid edge, generating renewable heat directly where it’s needed – without adding strain to the grid. Its modular, high-density design delivers over three times the greenhouse gas reduction per square metre compared to conventional solar PV panels.

While energy consumption across the UK has declined since 1990, the hotel sector’s demand has surged – driven largely by heating and hot water, which account for nearly 70% of a hotel’s energy use. The VirtuHOT installation at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London sets a new standard for decarbonising the hospitality industry, providing a scalable solution for hotels looking to cut emissions and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London is one of the city’s most recognisable hotels with a 140-year history, and underwent an extensive multi-million-pound restoration before reopening in 2019. The low-profile design of Naked Energy’s collectors ensures they seamlessly integrate with the hotel’s architecture, overcoming planning challenges faced by buildings surrounding Hyde Park.

Christophe Williams, Co-Founder and CEO of Naked Energy, said: "It’s an honour to have our collectors installed at such an iconic London hotel. The building has a long and storied history, and we’re proud to help Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London meet its sustainability goals while managing energy costs alongside our trusted partner SHEco.

"The need to decarbonise heat is often overlooked in conversations about the UK’s net zero transition. This project is an exciting milestone for solar heat in the UK, and we hope other hoteliers will follow Mandarin Oriental’s lead in embracing renewable solutions and reducing their reliance on fossil fuels."

Torsten van Dullemen, General Manager, Area Vice President & Group Director of Sustainability, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London, said: “Naked Energy’s remarkable solar technology aligns seamlessly with our hotel’s core commitment to the wellbeing of our planet, of our community, and our staff and guests.

“I’m delighted to bring such an innovative solar heating system to our hotel - we’re designing a cutting-edge hotel experience that is built for the future we want to live in. We hope this installation serves as a blueprint to inspire other hoteliers in London to prioritise their renewable goals and join us in creating a cleaner, more sustainable tomorrow.”

Adam Clark, Commercial Director of SHEco, said: "It has been a pleasure to work alongside Naked Energy and Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London on this pioneering project. The energy transition is gaining momentum, and businesses must reassess their decarbonisation strategies – particularly when it comes to heat – to stay on track for net zero."

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London project sets a benchmark for sustainable hospitality and serves as a model for other hotels looking to reduce carbon emissions and adopt grid-independent renewable heat solutions.

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