Hilton’s clean energy strategy gains traction

Cost-neutral renewables and owner buy-in drive momentum toward 2030 climate goals

Hilton is maintaining momentum on its clean energy strategy despite U.S. policy rollbacks, leveraging cost-neutral renewable energy contracts and partnerships with utilities to reduce emissions and engage hotel owners. The company reports a drop in global greenhouse gas emissions and is pushing toward ambitious 2030 climate targets through integrated, cost-saving sustainability initiatives.

Key takeaways

• Cost-neutral renewables as a catalyst: Hilton found that in late 2024, clean energy contracts cost the same as fossil fuel power, spurring more hotel owners to adopt renewable options.
• Resilient strategy amid policy changes: Hilton’s reliance on private utility partnerships has insulated it from U.S. clean energy program rollbacks.
• Significant emissions reductions: The company’s greenhouse gas emissions fell to 6.57 million metric tons in 2024, reversing two years of post-pandemic increases.
• Ambitious climate targets: Hilton aims to cut emissions intensity by 75% (Scope 1 and 2) and 56% (Scope 3) by 2030, using a 2008 baseline.
• Owner-focused support: Hilton provides franchisees with vetted vendors, guides, and contracts for energy-efficient equipment and clean energy procurement, making sustainability upgrades easier.
• Integrated risk management: The company uses its LightStay platform and design checklists to track risks and adapt hotels to climate threats like flooding and extreme weather.
• Challenging cost myths: Hilton emphasizes that sustainability investments often generate cost savings, enabling reinvestment in further upgrades.

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