Energy being saved at Sheraton Laguna

NUSA DUA: Sheraton Laguna Nusa Dua hotel is doing what it can to comply with new nationwide energy-saving measures in view of the current power crisis.

Through active internal campaigning for awareness, the 270- room resort's staff have already managed to reduce electricity bills by 9.1 percent from January to June 2005, compared with the same period last year, despite a significant occupancy increase of 6.6 percent.

These efforts, says conservation project chief Aditya Lukmansyah, have been achieved through electricity management in guest rooms and air-conditioning sytems, and by increasing awareness through an employee campaign to reduce electricity consumption at the back of the house.

"Neither guest safety nor satisfaction have been compromised by the electricity conservation program; we shall continue to look for more ways to reduce demand, without affecting comfort and efficiency," said Sheraton Laguna Nusa Dua Hotel general manager Richard Suter.

To reduce Indonesia's reliance on fossil fuels, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono introduced sweeping measures on July 10, which required government conservation. The Bali government is expected to follow suit with recommendations for energy saving on the island.

"We are lucky to already have proven plans in place to set a good example for others in the industry to follow," said Suter.

The resort is launching an internal campaign to seek suggestions from employees for further energy-saving measures. -- JP