By – Vinay Thadani, Director and CEO of GREW Solar
Solar Power: The Smart Path to a Greener, More Profitable Tourism Future
Over the past two decades, solar energy has emerged as a game-changer across industries—offering immense potential for the tourism sector. As sustainability becomes a global priority, solar power is not just an eco-friendly choice but a smart business strategy for hotels and resorts. Tourism contributes to 8.8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with hospitality being a major energy consumer. In India, where tourism drives economic growth, the Vision 2047 aims for 100 million inbound tourists, with the sector’s GDP contribution expected to reach INR 21.15 trillion in 2024 and INR 43.25 trillion by 2034, supporting 63 million jobs. Solar adoption offers tourism businesses a chance to lower costs, reduce emissions, enhance guest experience, and stay ahead in a sustainability-driven market.
Solar Power: The Smart Choice for Tourism
Across the hospitality sector, solar adoption is proving both eco-friendly and cost-effective. Luxury eco-resorts in Rajasthan have replaced diesel generators with solar systems, cutting costs and enhancing guest comfort. In Kerala, floating solar systems provide clean energy without using valuable land.
Key benefits include:
- Energy Security: Properties in remote destinations can ensure consistent guest comfort while reducing operational disruptions.
- Enhanced Guest Experience: Solar-heated pools and EV charging stations can directly improve visitor experiences while demonstrating sustainability commitment.
- Competitive Advantage: Properties with solar technology see increased bookings from environmentally conscious travellers.
- Versatile Applications: Solar thermal technology revolutionizes water heating, pool maintenance, and air conditioning systems.
The Green Travel Revolution
The global ecotourism market, valued at USD 270.5 billion in 2025, is set to reach USD 551.8 billion by 2035, growing at 7.4% annually. Today’s travellers increasingly choose destinations based on environmental responsibility, with energy sourcing playing a key role.
Solar-powered resorts and lodges not only cut emissions but also offer authentic, eco-friendly experiences that align with modern traveller values. While solar manufacturers continue embracing sustainable practices, the real need is to accelerate solar adoption across the tourism industry.
Building Tomorrow’s Tourism Today
As solar technology advances, costs continue to fall, and efficiency rises, making renewable energy increasingly accessible for businesses of all sizes. In India, several government incentives are in place to encourage solar adoption within the tourism sector. Net metering policies allow hotels and resorts to sell excess solar power back to the grid, lowering electricity costs. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)’s Rooftop Solar Programme Phase-II offers subsidies of up to 40% for systems up to 3 kW and 20% for systems between 3–10 kW, benefiting hospitality establishments like hotels, resorts, and eco-lodges.
Businesses can also claim 40% accelerated depreciation in the first year, reducing tax liabilities and improving return on investment. For larger solar projects in remote areas, Viability Gap Funding (VGF) provides essential financial support. The PM-KUSUM scheme also helps rural tourism ventures, including eco-lodges and agro-tourism, access solar-powered standalone systems or pumps. Additionally, the Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) Scheme allows hospitality businesses to import solar equipment at zero customs duty, further reducing costs, especially for international tourism operators.
Key sustainability trends reshaping tourism in 2025 include:
- Solar energy expansion across the entire hospitality value chain
- AI-driven energy management systems optimizing electricity usage
- Low-carbon transportation networks powered by renewable sources
- Guest engagement programs centered around sustainability initiatives
- Comprehensive carbon reduction strategies with solar as the foundation
Powering the Future of Travel
The future of India’s tourism industry lies in ensuring that sustainability enhances travel experiences rather than detracting from them. Zero-emission resorts, clean-energy heritage hotels, and renewable-powered destinations are now not only possible but achievable with today’s technology.
As the industry stands at a pivotal moment, adopting solar energy is not just an environmental responsibility—it’s a smart business strategy. It allows businesses to lower costs, improve their carbon footprint, and meet the growing demand for sustainable travel. Solar power must become as integral to hospitality infrastructure as comfortable beds and attentive service. This will ensure that tourism continues to celebrate the world’s wonders while preserving them for future generations.
