Influence of energy saving on the quality of lighting services on selected hotels in Mpumalanga, Republic of South Africa

Abstract

This paper presents the results of an investigation undertaken on the influence of energy saving on the quality of lighting services on selected hotels in Mpumalanga, one of the nine provinces of the Republic of South Africa. This paper adopted a multiple case study methodology in which eight hotels were selected for in-depth study. Questionnaires, observation checklist, energy meters and a lux meter were used for data collection. Microsoft Excel 2013 was used for descriptive statistical analysis of collected data. Information on input energy consumption for lighting (in energy quantity, cost and carbon foot print) and lighting levels in the selected hotels were analysed. The results show that all the selected hotels were energy saving in their lighting services. However, none of the hotels' lighting services were compliant with minimum standard of 100 lux. This paper concludes by suggesting that tourism and hospitality councils should raise awareness about services standards. Lastly, health authorities should monitor and enforce compliance standards in hotels in order to prevent the health and associated consequences of poor lighting on guests and hotel staff.