The 142-room hotel has been opened in Exeter, in partnership with Zeal Hotels and Valor Hospitality, and is designed to operate entirely on renewable and solar energy.

It also has 12 electric vehicles charging point and its restaurant focuses on locally sourced ingredients through a collaboration with nearby farmers and producers.

Also, in its design it uses vertical solar panels for its rainscreen cladding system and also uses heat pumps to further save energy.

During its construction concrete which uses 85% less CO2 than regular cement was used.

The hotel “helps set the standards for net zero carbon hotels and marks a pivotal step towards a more sustainable future in hospitality”, said IHG’s managing director UK & Ireland Joanna Kurowska.

“By inspiring both industry leaders and our guests, we are demonstrating how comfort and sustainability can successfully coexist, benefiting both the environment and the communities we serve.”

Zeal Hotels founding director Tim Wheeldon added: “The decision to build our net zero hotel reflects our commitment to combating climate change and reducing our carbon footprint.

"By harnessing renewable energy sources, implementing energy-efficient designs, and utilising innovative technology, we have created a space that not only provides comfort and luxury but also prioritises environmental responsibility.

“We are looking forward to sharing our knowledge with others to help accelerate the net zero carbon process across the sector.”

---