Negril’s Grand Pineapple cops JPS energy efficiency award

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

GRAND Pineapple Beach Resort Negril recently won the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) Award for the ‘Best Use of Energy’ in the small hotel category for the year 2010. The award was presented at the recently held Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association’s (JHTA) annual luncheon and awards ceremony.

The JPS ‘Best Use of Energy’ Award in the small hotel category is presented to the organisation with fewer than 100 rooms that is able to generate growth through high occupancy levels, while exhibiting the best energy management practices — determined by JPS load and power calculations.

Economic development manager at JPS, Heather Rowe, said Grand Pineapple Negril’s achievements are significant in Jamaica’s economic climate. “The Jamaica Public Service has worked closely with the JHTA to educate hoteliers on sound energy efficiency practices. This is a vision that we are trying to share with an increasing number of businesses on the island. We believe that by working with organisations like Grand Pineapple Negril, that embrace and promote this, we will consequently be in a better position to contribute to Jamaica’s growth and development,” she said.

Last year, Grand Pineapple Negril was recognised by the JPS ‘Best Use of Energy’ Awards Committee as the Most Improved Hotel for the Year 2009. “Copping the top award this year is really a manifestation of how much we have grown as a small hotel and how consistent we have been in our work to reduce energy usage,” said general manager Junior Gordon. “It is pure commitment on the part of our team members, managers and corporate office, hard work and innovation that has brought Grand Pineapple to this point. The efficient use of energy is something we have always practised and promoted here, and being recognised for that is a tremendous feeling.”

Grand Pineapple Negril’s hotel manager, Sheldon James said the resort has been using energy-saving bulbs, and timers have been placed in several areas of the property, including pools, motors, hot tubs and along walkways, patios and in rooms to control electricity usage. There is also ongoing sensitisation about energy conservation through in-room brochures for guests and training sessions for staff.

Grand Pineapple Negril’s achievement of the JPS ‘Best Use of Energy’ Award for 2010 is a reflection of Sandals Resorts International’s focus on environmental awareness and eco-friendly practices, in areas such as energy conservation. All Sandals, Beaches and Grand Pineapple properties have earned several environmental awards and certification such as Earth Guard certification.