Smart Energy Systems: A Smart Investment for Holiday Rental Hosts
Discover how smart energy systems can benefit you & your holiday rental home
May 2025
If you’re a vacation rental host, you know the balancing act: keeping guests happy, minimising running costs, and staying competitive in an increasingly eco-conscious market.
But what if there was a single upgrade that could help you do all three?
Smart energy systems are fast becoming essential for hosts who want to optimise their properties, cut waste, and appeal to modern travellers. Here’s why they deserve a place in your rental.
What is a Smart Energy System?
A smart energy system uses intelligent hardware — like smart thermostats, AC controllers, and sensors — connected to cloud-based software that automates how your property uses energy.
Instead of guests manually adjusting the temperature (and forgetting to turn it off), smart systems react in real time to occupancy, weather, or time of day. That means your rental stays comfortable when it matters — and efficient when it doesn’t.
Why holiday home hosts are making the switch
1. Lower Utility Bills
Heating and cooling can represent over half of a property’s energy costs. Smart systems help reduce those bills by avoiding unnecessary usage — especially when no one is home.
2. Less Stress Between Bookings
Forget the days of checking if the heat was left on after checkout. Smart controls let you monitor and manage your system remotely — whether you’re nearby or on holiday yourself.
3. Improved Guest Experience
Guests arrive late in summer? No problem. With pre-cooling or pre-heating, your holiday rental feels welcoming the moment they step through the door.
4. Sustainability That Sets You Apart
Travellers are increasingly choosing eco-conscious stays. Properties with visible sustainable features often earn better reviews, higher ratings, and stronger repeat bookings.
5. Staying Ahead of Regulations
Energy performance standards are tightening in many regions. Investing in smart tech now means staying compliant tomorrow — and possibly qualifying for rebates or incentives along the way.
The bigger picture: Greener travel is growing
Sustainability is becoming a key factor in how travellers choose their accommodation. Across the industry, there’s a clear shift:
- Guests are becoming more aware of the environmental impact of travel
- Many actively look for ways to reduce their carbon footprint while on holiday
- Properties with visible sustainability features stand out in search results and reviews
- Eco-conscious upgrades like smart energy systems are increasingly seen as signs of quality and care
By aligning your property with these values, you don’t just support the planet — you also position your holiday rental to appeal to a growing segment of mindful travellers.
How to get started
- Assess your needs: Start by identifying when your bills spike — typically in the coldest and hottest months.
- Compare systems: Look for intuitive mobile apps, automation features, and energy-saving reports.
- Check compatibility: Many systems are compatible with a broad range of setups, but it’s smart to verify.
- Start small: Begin with the main heating or cooling zone before expanding to the entire property.
Final thoughts
For hosts, time is money — and so is energy. Smart energy systems offer a rare combination: lower costs, less hassle, and a better guest experience, all while supporting a more sustainable tourism industry.
It’s not just a smart choice for your rental — it’s a smart move for the future.