Energy-Saving Upgrades Yield Big Rewards for Best Western Kent Narrows Inn

Running a 97-room hotel on the Chesapeake Bay is no small task. General Manager Marc Lacoste and owner Ramesh Patel juggle daily operations while striving to keep guests comfortable and costs under control. Energy efficiency offered an opportunity to reduce expenses and improve the guest experience—without adding complexity to their busy schedule.

The Opportunity

High energy demands and ongoing maintenance made cost control a priority. The team turned to Delmarva Power’s Small Business Program for solutions that could deliver savings and simplify operations. 

The Upgrades

The hotel began by upgrading its interior and exterior lighting to energy-efficient LED bulbs, which immediately reduced energy use and maintenance needs. Building on that success, they installed three 100-gallon hot water boilers and replaced outdated room HVAC units with efficient packaged terminal air conditioners (PTACs). To further improve efficiency, the team also replaced older refrigerators, freezers, and ice machines with modern, energy-saving models. These comprehensive upgrades were designed to lower operating costs while enhancing comfort for guests.

The Results

The improvements have delivered significant benefits for the hotel. Energy bills have dropped substantially, and the new PTAC units are quieter and require far less maintenance than the previous systems. Guests enjoy a more comfortable environment, and the staff spends less time on equipment upkeep. With Delmarva Power’s support and streamlined rebate process, the upgrades were completed smoothly, freeing the team to focus on providing exceptional service.