Leitlhof Dolomiten, Italy, has been nominated for the title of Europe’s Leading Green Hotel at the World Travel Awards.
The honour is in large part thanks to Stephan Mühlmann, general manager of the wood-fired power plant at the property, who has made ecological efficiency a key part of its operations.
The power plant is used to heat the 62-room hotel, as well as provide energy throughout the year.
It is composed to of two wood burning systems and is complemented by a photovoltaic plant on the roof, as well as an additional wood chip stove.
An ingeniously efficiency concept, the system enables heat to be spread around the hotel, while hot water is provided by the wood chips.
The raw material, wood, comes from the surrounding forests.
The combination of photovoltaic, electric and thermal energy production, wood dust and highly efficient heat recovery makes the power plant unique.
Mühlmann focuses on the waste heat of the wood gasifier power plant.
He explained: “After the first five years of hard work and many sleepless nights, operations normalised thanks to our technical developments and optimisation.
“The approximately €2 million investment should have paid for itself in seven years.
“The know-how acquired is encouraging and will also contribute decisively to the protection of the environment and protection of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site.”
His hard work has been noted by hospitality insiders, who have nominated the property for the prestigious title.
More Information
Voting for the World Travel Awards Europe Gala Ceremony is open until May 20th.
The winners will be revealed during a red-carpet event at the Zappeion Megaron Hall in Athens, Greece, on June 30th.
Find out more about the event here.