Sustainability -Energy Management

We are committed to creating a sustainable and eco-friendly environment for our guests and the planet. Our energy efficiency initiatives are designed to reduce our carbon footprint while providing you with a comfortable and memorable stay.

We closely monitor electricity consumption at our lodges. Each lodge reports data on their daily electricity usage and generator readings into an online, live and interactive platform. Live monitoring helps us detect potential faults or excess usage, allowing us to address issues promptly. Our standard for lighting across all properties is the use of energy-efficient options such as LED bulbs, daylight switching lights, motion sensor lights, and low-energy equipment like heat pumps instead of conventional geysers.

In our pursuit of sustainability, we have to-date equipped 85% of our lodges with solar panels to harness Namibia’s abundant sunshine. Six of Gondwana's properties run entirely on solar power, and 53% of the energy produced at our lodges comes from solar energy. In partnership with a company called SolarSaver, we monitor solar production and usage at our lodges. This includes quantifying data on our environmental impact, such as the amount of carbon dioxide, oil barrels and trees that have been saved by opting for solar power. At our properties, rooms are fitted with eco-friendly and energy-efficient appliances that provide high performance with low energy consumption. From refrigerators to air conditioning units, we choose appliances that support our sustainability goals and minimise our environmental impact.

Through these initiatives, Gondwana demonstrates its dedication to creating a sustainable future while ensuring our guests enjoy a comfortable and memorable stay in Namibia's breathtaking natural landscapes. We are committed to exploring innovative solutions like green hydrogen and other green energy sources to further enhance our sustainability efforts, and propelling progress toward realizing Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable Clean Energy.

Gondwana's Commitment to Green Energy and Efficiency

Gondwana Collection Namibia, a leading tourism company in the country, has made significant strides in embracing renewable energy and energy efficiency across its operations. With Namibia's abundant sunshine, Gondwana has harnessed the power of solar energy to power its lodges, contributing to a more sustainable future for the tourism industry.

Solar Power Generation

Since 2018, Gondwana has equipped its lodges with solar infrastructure, except for Zambezi Mubala Camp. This initiative, undertaken in partnership with SolarSaver, has allowed Gondwana to mitigate the unreliable energy supply from the national grid operated by NamPower and cushion itself from increases in NamPower tariffs. The company has also fed any excess power generated by the lodges into the national grid, contributing to the overall energy mix.

The urban-based hotels, The Weinberg Windhoek and The Delight Swakopmund, have also embraced green energy solutions. While these hotels rely on grid power, The Delight has incorporated solar panels to supplement its hot water supply, further reducing its environmental impact.

Financial and Environmental Benefits

Gondwana's commitment to renewable energy has yielded significant financial and environmental benefits. Since the implementation of the SolarSaver plants, the company has saved over N$4.13 million (2022: N$2.98 million). This savings not only contributes to the company's bottom line but also demonstrates the long-term viability of investing in renewable energy solutions.

Gondwana's goal remains to supply most of its energy usage from its own solar power generation, further reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to a cleaner environment.

Innovative Solutions for 2023

In 2023, Gondwana is introducing new energy-efficient solutions across its properties. At Palmwag Lodge and Camp, the team is replacing old electrical geysers with hybrid solar-powered heat pumps and installing a centralised solar-powered hot water supply system for new employee bathrooms. These initiatives will help reduce energy consumption and promote sustainable practices within the company.

Additionally, Gondwana is producing energy-saving ice-making machines and an air conditioner cleaning system, which optimise functionality and energy use. These innovative solutions showcase the company's commitment to staying at the forefront of energy efficiency in the tourism industry.

Gondwana has set its sights on maximising its solar usage to further reduce its reliance on NamPower during peak hospitality hours. By investing in additional solar infrastructure and optimising its energy management systems, the company aims to become even more self-sufficient in its energy needs while contributing to the overall sustainability of the tourism sector in Namibia.

Gondwana Collection Namibia's commitment to green energy and energy efficiency sets a benchmark for the tourism industry in Namibia. By embracing renewable energy solutions, the company not only reduces its environmental footprint but also generates significant financial savings that can be reinvested into its operations and community development initiatives.

As Gondwana continues to innovate and introduce new energy-efficient technologies, it demonstrates the potential for the tourism industry to lead the way in sustainable practices. By inspiring other companies to follow suit, Gondwana is contributing to a greener and more prosperous future for Namibia, where tourism and conservation coexist harmoniously for the benefit of all stakeholders involved.

Gondwana's Commitment to Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Gondwana Collection Namibia has made remarkable strides in energy efficiency and sustainability, demonstrating a strong commitment to reducing its environmental impact while enhancing operational efficiency. The company’s efforts align with global environmental goals and showcase its dedication to responsible tourism practices. This article explores Gondwana's energy usage, savings from solar power, and strategic objectives for the future.

Energy Usage and Efficiency

Gondwana's total energy usage has seen a steady increase over the years, reflecting the growth of its operations. In 2021, the total energy usage was 3,071,117 kWh, which rose to 3,694,802 kWh in 2022, and further increased to 4,143,248 kWh in 2023. The target for 2024 is set at 4,200,000 kWh. Despite the rising energy consumption, Gondwana has successfully improved its energy efficiency, as indicated by the energy usage per person per day. In 2021, the efficiency was recorded at 15 kWh per person per day, which decreased to 12 kWh in both 2022 and 2023, with a target of 10 kWh for 2024. This reduction in energy usage per guest demonstrates Gondwana's commitment to optimising energy consumption while accommodating more visitors.

Financial Savings from Solar Energy

Gondwana's investment in solar energy has yielded significant financial savings. The company has reported savings from solar energy amounting to N$935,583 in 2020, which increased to N$849,501 in 2021, and further to N$865,165 in 2022. The projected savings for 2023 are N$1,149,123, with a target of N$1,200,000 for 2024.The implementation of solar energy solutions has not only reduced operational costs but has also contributed to a more sustainable energy model. By harnessing Namibia's abundant sunlight, Gondwana is reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and decreasing its carbon footprint.

Solar Energy Production and Environmental Impact

The production of solar energy has been a key focus for Gondwana. In 2021, the company generated 1,913 MWh of solar energy, which increased to 2,061 MWh in 2022, and reached 2,131 MWh in 2023, with a target of 2,200 MWh for 2024. This increase in solar energy production has led to substantial environmental benefits, including the savings of oil barrels and the reduction of CO2 emissions.

In 2021, Gondwana saved 1,149 barrels of oil, which increased to 1,238 barrels in 2022, and is projected to reach 1,280 barrels in 2023, with a target of 1,400 barrels for 2024. The company also saved 1,970 tonnes of CO2 in 2021, which rose to 2,123 tonnes in 2022, and is expected to reach 2,195 tonnes in 2023, with a target of 2,300 tonnes for 2024. Additionally, Gondwana has saved over 5,216 trees in 2021, with an increase to 5,669 trees in 2022, and a projected 5,859 trees in 2023, aiming for 6,200 trees in 2024.

Strategic Objectives for Sustainability

Gondwana's strategic objectives align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on limiting and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, optimising electricity usage, and ensuring maximum electricity supply from renewable sources. Gondwana aims to achieve 50% of its energy used at lodges from solar by 2021, increasing to 80% by 2023.To meet these objectives, Gondwana is committed to implementing innovative green energy solutions and continuously improving energy efficiency across its operations. This commitment not only contributes to the company's sustainability goals but also enhances its reputation as a leader in responsible tourism.

Gondwana Collection Namibia's dedication to energy efficiency and sustainability is evident in its impressive achievements in energy usage, solar energy production, and financial savings. By prioritising renewable energy and optimising operational efficiency, Gondwana is setting a benchmark for the tourism industry in Namibia.

As the company continues to innovate and implement sustainable practices, it demonstrates that responsible tourism can coexist with environmental stewardship. Gondwana's efforts not only benefit the company and its guests but also contribute to the broader goal of protecting Namibia's unique natural environment for future generations. Through its commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, Gondwana is proving that success can be measured not just in financial terms but also in the positive impact on the planet and local communities. The Proof of Our Success: Gondwana's Commitment to Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Gondwana Collection Namibia: Leading the Way in Eco-Friendly Hospitality

At Gondwana Collection Namibia, our commitment to sustainability is reflected in our use of eco-friendly appliances across all lodges. We ensure that energy-efficient settings are standard on all appliances, demonstrating our lodge teams' understanding of and dedication to eco-practices.

Energy Efficiency as Standard

Energy-efficient LED light bulbs illuminate our lodges, including guest rooms, communal areas, kitchens, and laundry facilities. Our range of eco-friendly appliances includes microwaves, washing machines, and tumble dryers. By utilising these energy-efficient options, we maximise their benefits while minimising resource consumption, particularly in operations that typically demand high energy.

Innovative Cooling Solutions

To further enhance our energy efficiency, our lodges are equipped with walk-in cooler rooms and freezers. These facilities have strictly regulated access and feature reminder signs to ensure that doors are kept closed. This practice helps maintain consistent internal temperatures, reducing energy consumption by preventing temperature drops caused by frequent door openings.

Some lodges also utilise traditional-style cooler rooms akin to wine cellars. These structures consist of thick brick walls designed to allow airflow and accommodate insulation materials such as charcoal or newspaper. This innovative design harnesses the earth's natural thermal regulation, enabling us to cool the inner room effectively while significantly reducing reliance on modern cooling systems.

For instance, at Chobe River Camp, water trickles down the outer walls of the cooler room, where it is absorbed by the insulation material. The resulting airflow around the spaced bricks creates a cooling effect within the room, showcasing our commitment to sustainable practices.

Gondwana Collection Namibia continues to lead by example in the hospitality sector, prioritising environmental stewardship while providing exceptional experiences for our guests.

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