FUNNER, CA – Harrah’s Resort Southern California was presented with a ceremonial incentive check for $127,571.94 by TRC, a third-party administrator for San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) energy efficiency programs, following a resort-wide digital thermostat project that surpassed all energy-saving goals.
The initiative involved the installation of 1,445 Honeywell INNCOM digital thermostats by Light Technology Applications (LTA). These smart units were integrated directly into the resort’s guest check-in system, allowing the property to automatically adjust climate settings based on room occupancy. The technology was deployed throughout all 1,087 guest rooms across the three hotel towers, as well as in hallways, service landings and operational areas.
While the project was initially projected to save 1,024,609 kilowatt-hours (kWh) annually, the system achieved a verified 1,697,535 kWh in annual energy savings – exceeding expectations by over 65%. This reduction in energy use equates to approximately $265,730 in yearly electricity costs, or enough energy to power 236 homes.
“At Harrah’s Resort Southern California, we’ve always believed that you can bet on a greener future without ever folding on the guest experience,” said Jill Barrett, SVP and GM. “Through our CodeGreen initiative, we are constantly looking for ways to reduce our footprint. This project shows that by investing in the right technology, we can enhance guest comfort while being responsible stewards of our resources.”
The thermostat project is the latest milestone in the resort’s CodeGreen program, a comprehensive sustainability strategy that has produced several environmental outcomes. The resort has generated 19 million kWh of solar energy, an amount equivalent to the carbon sequestered by more than 222,000 tree seedlings grown for 10 years. Water conservation efforts, including recycling and management initiatives, have reduced usage by 2.3 million gallons year over year. The property also recycles approximately 48 tons of material each month and converts about 41 tons of grease into biofuel annually. In addition, Harrah’s currently operates 10 on-site electric vehicle charging stations to support zero-emission travel for guests.
The incentive funds from the project are expected to be allocated to the resort’s general capital fund, with leadership exploring opportunities to reinvest the savings into additional energy efficiency initiatives.
“The Rincon Tribe is committed to being responsible stewards of our land and resources,” said Rincon Tribal Chairman Steve Stallings. “Through our partnership with SDG&E and LTA, we are integrating sustainable technology that protects our environment and ensures a resilient future for our community and our guests.”