Sunlight in every room: can solar panels be used to heat hotel spaces?

Hospitality That’s Energy Efficient

A modern hotel isn’t just about comfort—it’s also about smart spending. Especially during winter, when heating bills soar and travelers increasingly prefer eco-conscious stays. Across Ukraine, more and more hotel owners are exploring renewable energy sources. And one of the most promising options is solar power.

At first glance, the idea of heating rooms with sunlight might seem overly ambitious. But today, from the Carpathians to the Black Sea coast, real-life examples are proving otherwise. In Kyiv region, for instance, a small countryside eco-hotel recently installed a hybrid system combining solar panels with a heat pump. The result? Consistent warmth, nearly 50% lower energy costs, and a stronger appeal to environmentally minded guests.

All of this became possible thanks to the installation of a low-cost solar power plant in Kyiv for hotels and resorts, carefully designed to meet the property’s specific needs: some of the energy went toward water heating, while the rest powered infrared heaters in guest rooms.

How Can The Sun Heat A Hotel?

There are two main ways to harness solar energy for heating:

  1. Solar thermal collectors – These heat water that then circulates through radiators or underfloor heating systems.
  2. Photovoltaic (PV) panels – These generate electricity, which can power space heaters, heat pumps, or electric boilers.

For larger properties like hotels, combining both approaches often yields the best results. This way, solar energy can be used even on cloudy days and stored in batteries for use at night.

And with smart automation, the entire system runs quietly in the background—no extra staff, no daily maintenance.

Think of it like a high-tech thermos. It captures heat by day to keep your rooms warm through the night—without noise, emissions, or reliance on central grids.

How Much Power Does A Hotel Need?

The answer depends on the building’s size, insulation quality, seasonal operations, and room count. On average, a hotel with 20–25 rooms will require a system between 10 and 30 kW. A 10 kW plant is often the most cost-effective choice, balancing investment and output.

If you're looking into a 10 kW turnkey solar power plant and price in Kyiv, don’t just consider the equipment cost. Installation, design, and grid connection also matter. Typically, a system like this pays for itself in 5–6 years—and keeps working for over two decades.

Why Hotels Are Turning To Solar

Hotel owners across the country are already seeing tangible benefits:

  • Significant savings on heating and hot water
  • Reliable performance during outages
  • Better rankings on booking platforms thanks to eco-friendliness
  • Steady indoor temperatures without overloading the grid

And this isn’t just theory. In Odesa region, a family-run hotel installed a solar combo system—PV panels, thermal collectors, and storage batteries. Even during the off-season, the property now offers guests warm rooms without fearing energy price hikes.

What Should You Consider Before Installation?

Before diving in, experts recommend answering a few key questions:

  • What kind of heating system do you use now?
  • Is there enough space for panels (roof, carport, land)?
  • What’s your peak energy load?
  • Will the hotel operate year-round?

These factors determine the right equipment, system configuration, and investment level. Dolya Solar Energy offers full-cycle support—from initial consultation to a fully operational, turnkey installation.

And if you're unsure which solar power plant to choose: 5, 10, or 30 kW, professional guidance will help you get a tailored solution—not just a kit, but a fully integrated energy system designed specifically for your business.