Lighting the way: How Blackpool’s Penrhyn Hotel cut costs with sustainability support

Penrhyn Hotel in Blackpool has been run by Caron and Lawrie Hanlon for 11 years. Committed to supporting local businesses and reducing their environmental impact, the couple took proactive steps towards sustainability in 2025.

As active members of Stay Blackpool, they connected with the Blackpool Net Zero Business Academy through its Winter Warmer Campaign, which offered tailored support to businesses seeking to reduce their carbon footprints and become more eco-friendly.

As eco-consciousness grows among hotel guests, Caron and Lawrie recognised the importance of improving energy efficiency and adopting sustainable practices.

By doing so, they not only reduce costs but also meet the growing demand for greener accommodation.

Megan Tucker one of the Academy’s sustainability specialists carried out an in-depth energy audit leading to a personalised decarbonisation action plan. The plan recommended upgrades to energy-efficient LEDs and motion sensors to reduce energy use.

Caron said: "The whole process was so quick and easy with Megan's support. She knew exactly what to suggest and pointed us in the right direction to implement the support."

Following the energy audit the couple worked with local supplier, Lighting House, to install motion sensors in guest en-suite bathrooms and key areas of the hotel. The Academy also helped them secure grant funding to cover the costs of the upgrades, including PIR sensors in key areas of the hotel.

Caron says, "We are already seeing benefits in cost savings and are really grateful for all the help Megan and the Net Zero experts from the Academy have provided.”

With a leasehold in place for at least another four years, Caron and Lawrie have started to evaluate their next steps in their sustainability journey. The Blackpool Net Zero Business Academy has provided them with a clear roadmap for continuing to improve the hotel’s environmental performance.

Blackpool businesses looking to reduce energy costs and become more sustainable, are encouraged to contact the Blackpool Net Zero Business Academy for fully funded expert advice.