The application of Net Zero Energy Building (NZEB) principles in Nigeria’s building industry remains underexamined, particularly in the hospitality sector. This study explores stakeholder perspectives on the feasibility, challenges, and opportunities of applying NZEB principles in boutique hotel design in Lagos, Nigeria. The study employs a qualitative research approach through thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with Architects, Hotel managers, Facility managers, and Energy experts to provide contextual insights into the feasibility and perceived challenges of applying NZEB principles in boutique hotel design. Findings reveal a complicated interplay of structural and perceptual barriers, such as enormous initial cost, inadequate technical expertise, and client skepticism. However, amidst these limitations, findings also highlight emerging enablers such as growing interest in Building Information Modelling (BIM), increased demand for sustainable hospitality experiences, and the potential of hybrid renewable systems tailored to local contexts. Participants also identified feasible strategies, such as leveraging smart systems, adapting hybrid renewable energy models, and incorporating elements of sustainability early in the design. The study offers a well-founded, stakeholder-informed perspective on sustainable hospitality, emphasizing the critical need for policy alignment, professional training, collaborative design frameworks, and design and energy innovations tailored to local contexts to bridge the gap between design theories and pragmatic implementation, contributing to the growing discourse on sustainable developments.
The climate crisis has elevated the urgency for transformative solutions in the built environment, particularly in high-consumption sectors such as hospitality (
Nigeria, as a country, has abundant solar potential and a climate suitable for passive cooling, yet continues to suffer from epileptic power supply, unreliable grid infrastructure, and a built environment dominated by unsustainable, non-renewable energy sources, which exponentially increase carbon emissions (
Most existing studies around NZEBs in Nigeria have focused on residential prototypes or technical simulations, with inadequate engagement with the stakeholders, including design professionals and energy consultants responsible for implementation, day-to-day decisions, long-term investments, and management of these facilities. However, evidence from global best practices suggests that stakeholder contributions across design, operations, and energy systems are one of the most crucial enablers for delivering truly sustainable buildings (
This study aims to evaluate the perspectives of key stakeholders on the implementation of Net Zero Energy Building (NZEB) principles in boutique hotel design in Lagos, Nigeria, with a focus on identifying the barriers, limitations, motivators, and contextual enablers of NZEB principles adoption in the hospitality sector. The study’s objectives are to assess the level of awareness of NZEB principles among stakeholders involved in boutique hotel design and operation, to identify the perceived barriers and limitations to NZEB implementation within the hospitality industry, and to explore stakeholder-driven opportunities, motivators, and context-specific solutions for NZEB principles adoption.
This research focuses on the data derived from eight purposefully selected stakeholders engaged in the design, management, and energy decision-making of boutique hotels in Lagos: four architects, three hotel managers (including general and facility managers), and one energy specialist. Using qualitative semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis, the study investigates how these professionals perceive NZEB principles, what influences their design or operational choices, and how various political, economic, and cultural factors affect implementation. The study does not attempt to quantify energy performance or validate specific technologies; instead, it offers an in-depth, practical understanding of what makes or breaks NZEB principles adoption from the people directly in charge of the process. The findings from the study will also support policy development, promote stakeholder education and involvement, and foster sustainable development.
By bridging the gap between theory and practice, this study contributes a solid, stakeholder-informed perspective to the ongoing discourse regarding sustainable design, NZEBs, and how their principles can be interpreted, understood, and applied for sustainable hotel designs in Nigeria and the Global South.
Net Zero Energy Buildings (NZEBs) have emerged as an innovative approach in reducing building-related carbon emissions and creating sustainable and eco-friendly urban environments. A Net Zero Energy Building (NZEB) is a building that produces as much energy as it consumes annually, typically through a combination of energy-efficient design and on-site renewable energy systems (
Core NZEB principles are not limited to renewable energy installations; they also include building orientation, natural ventilation, daylighting, insulation, thermal mass utilization, high-performance glazing, energy-efficient HVAC systems, and advanced energy management systems (
On the renewable energy front, photovoltaic systems remain the most widely applied technology in NZEBs. In high-insolation regions like Nigeria, rooftop solar PV installations offer significant potential, with some case studies indicating they can supply between 60% and 80% of a building’s energy needs (
However, while the technical potential of NZEBs is well-documented globally, their implementation remains uneven, especially in developing countries. Common barriers to adoption include high initial capital costs, limited access to renewable energy technologies, a lack of skilled professionals, little to no Government incentives, and weak policy enforcement (
Boutique hotels are characterized by their intimate scale, bespoke, unique designs, and flexibility in operation, offering an ideal platform for experimenting with and demonstrating NZEB strategies in the hospitality sector. Additionally, their typically independent ownership structures allow for innovation in architectural form and operational management, supporting the integration of passive design and renewable systems (
While the principles of NZEBs are technically practical and climatically appropriate for Nigeria, this study highlights that their successful realization depends not solely on design innovation or technological inventions but also on systemic enablers: stakeholders, financial incentives, policy alignment, and knowledge. This underlines the importance of understanding the technical requirements of NZEBs and the perspectives and roles of those directly involved in their conception, construction, implementation, and operation.
The primary regulatory instrument in Nigeria is the Window-to-Wall ratio (WWR): Capping openings at a maximum of 20% unless shading is provided. Lighting power density: Restricting wattage per square meter. Building envelope Cooling efficiency: Minimum performance standards (EER/COP) for air-conditioning units.
While the BEEC provides a baseline, researchers and professionals have identified major gaps that hinder the transition to true NZEB.
The future of NZEB in Nigeria is being shaped by several envisioned frameworks designed to ensure environmental wellness and safety.
Nigeria’s hospitality industry operates in a challenging energy landscape characterized by unreliable grid supply, heavy reliance on diesel generators, and rising operational costs (
While the National Building Energy Efficiency Code (BEEC, 2017) sets baseline efficiency standards, it offers no specific NZEB policy or incentives. Consequently, decisions around sustainability are primarily driven by stakeholders, making their perspectives pivotal to advancing NZEB adoption in the sector (
It is generally known that the successful delivery of Net Zero Energy Buildings (NZEBs) depends not only on technical design solutions but also on the active engagement of multiple stakeholders across the building’s lifecycle (
In climes with weak regulatory frameworks for NZEB adoption, such as Nigeria, stakeholder involvement becomes an indispensable determinant of success. Architects can drive innovation through passive design integration; hotel managers and facility operators control operational practices that directly affect energy performance; and energy experts provide the technical insight needed for renewable systems integration and systems optimization. However, conflicting priorities, cost concerns, and knowledge gaps often limit the extent of collaboration, resulting in partial or inconsistent application of NZEB principles.
For boutique hotels, where design flexibility is greater but financial and technical resources may be limited, the perspectives and priorities of these stakeholders can significantly shape both the scope and depth of NZEB adoption. Understanding how each group interprets feasibility, identifies barriers, and recognizes potential benefits is therefore essential to developing strategies that are not only technically viable but also contextually appropriate.
This study adopts a socio-technical systems framework and a qualitative research approach, focusing on in-depth interviews with key stakeholders involved in Lagos, Nigeria’s boutique hotel development and energy systems. The goal was to gain rich, contextual insights into stakeholder perceptions, perceived challenges, and strategies for implementing Net Zero Energy Building (NZEB) principles. All the participants provided written informed consent to participate in this study.
This study utilized a combination of purposive and snowball sampling methods to identify stakeholders capable of providing informed perspectives on applying NZEB principles in boutique hotel design within Lagos. Purposive sampling was first applied to recruit initial participants based on predetermined criteria, including their professional knowledge, relevant experience in architecture, hospitality management, or energy systems, and willingness to participate in in-depth interviews. Snowball sampling was then employed to expand the pool by asking initial participants to recommend other qualified professionals within their networks.
The final sample comprised eight stakeholders: four architects, three hotel managers (one general manager and two facility managers), and one energy expert. This approach ensured a diversity of professional viewpoints from individuals with practical insight into building design, hotel operations, and energy management, thereby capturing the multi-dimensional considerations that influence NZEB adoption in the hospitality sector.
While the sample size of eight participants seems numerically small, it satisfies the qualitative criterion of Information Power (
The Social-technical systems theory (STS) suggests that the performance of any organizational or technological system is determined by the interaction between two inseparable subsystems: the
In the context of boutique hotels in Lagos, the subsystems are defined as. The Technical Subsystem: This includes the hardware and software of NZEB, such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) tools, passive design (courtyards), renewable energy technologies (solar PV), and high-efficiency building envelopes (building materials). The Social Subsystem: This comprises the human and organizational elements, including stakeholder attitudes (client skepticism), guest behavior (demands for high-energy cooling), professional expertise (architects’ skills), and the regulatory agencies.
The data for this study were collected through semi-structured interviews designed to give detailed insights into stakeholders’ awareness, perceptions, and experiences regarding implementing NZEB principles in boutique hotels. An interview guide was developed based on themes identified in existing literature on NZEB adoption, hospitality sector energy use, and sustainable building practices. Questions were open-ended to allow participants to explain extensively, give context to their responses, and introduce issues they considered significant.
Interviews were conducted by the researcher over 4 months (December 9, 2024 - March 17, 2025), due to the availability of the participants, both in person and virtually. Each interview session lasted between 45 and 75 min, and some were audio-recorded with the participants’ consent. Field notes were taken to note salient points and non-verbal cues relevant to interpreting responses.
All interviews were transcribed verbatim to ensure accuracy and preserve the originality of participant responses. All identifying information was removed to maintain confidentiality and anonymity.
The recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim to represent participants’ responses accurately. Each transcript was read and studied repeatedly to gain familiarity with the content and to identify key points, recurring ideas, and patterns relevant to the study’s objectives. An open coding process was applied manually, highlighting noteworthy statements and grouping them according to their relevance to NZEB awareness, perceived barriers, opportunities, and implementation strategies within the hospitality sector.
Through iterative review, related codes were grouped into broader categories, which were then refined into principal themes that captured the essence of stakeholders’ perspectives. This process was entirely researcher-led, allowing for direct engagement with the data. The identified themes formed the foundation for presenting results and subsequent discussion, ensuring that the analysis remained grounded in the empirical evidence and aligned with the research objectives.
While interviewing the architects, nine principal themes were identified under three categories: design principles and energy efficiency, challenges, and opportunities.
While discussing natural lighting and ventilation, the architects clarified that they are two sides of a coin and depend on each other. Architect A emphasized that building orientation plays a vital role is harnessing natural lighting and ventilation and also courtyards, sighting examples of old style of building residences, Architect B spoke about incorporating courtyards in buildings, Architect C explained that using expansive windows in tandem with courtyards will maximize the use of natural lighting and ventilation in buildings, Architect D also strongly recommended the use of courtyards as shown in
Theme 1 - Natural lighting and ventilation.
| Natural lighting and ventilation | ||
|---|---|---|
| S/N | Architects | Direct quotes |
| 1 | Architect A | “It is straightforward: make sure that your building is well ventilated, and the rooms have to be well orientated in line with the direction of the wind. You capture it very well. You are going to use less energy to cool that room. |
| 2 | Architect B | “In energy efficiency, you talk about appliances; we should discuss strategies. Energy-efficient strategies like daylighting and maximizing natural ventilation are used to reduce energy consumption.” |
| 3 | Architect C | “What we did was to make the openings in the building as large as possible. I created some different classes of courtyards within the hotel. For some, it was an open-ended courtyard. For some, it was a closed courtyard. We created very interesting planters within the spaces. We created a green balcony. And then we added some potted plants here and there.” |
| 4 | Architect D | “An energy-efficient strategy I always recommend in big buildings is a courtyard, because it allows a lot of natural and, of course, ventilation. What is the use of a courtyard if you do not plant trees there?” |
In the discussion on material selection, the architects agreed that choosing and using the right materials, like bricks, can help regulate the indoor temperature because of their properties.
Theme 2 - Material selection.
| Material selection | ||
|---|---|---|
| S/N | Architects | Direct quotes |
| 1 | Architect A | “The use of energy-efficient materials. There are some materials that, when you use them, help you achieve energy efficiency due to what you bring on board. One of them, for instance, is bricks. The way our forefathers cooled their water using clay pots gives the effect of a fridge. So, when you use those same bricks, you use clay to design and keep the interior cool and heat out.” |
| 2 | Architect B | “Material selection and type of material also play a critical role. People talk about bricks, saying they have this cooling effect if you use bricks. We also talk about ceilings that can absorb heat, and we also talk about maybe shading devices too. Those are just the major things.” |
| 3 | Architect C | “The material that you use in the building must be carefully selected. That is what we call material analysis. At the preliminary stages of your design, you must do material analysis. When you do a proper material analysis, you will know that certain materials should be used for that project. So, for instance, if we take it straight to the tropics where we are, we know that certain building materials would cause much heat, would cause much waste, and then would cause much distraction, glare here and there.” |
| 4 | Architect D | “Selecting the right materials can also help reduce heat gain or loss. Bricks are a perfect example, but most clients will tell you it is old school. Also, I like designing balconies for every room to increase the distance from the eaves to the windows.” |
As shown in
Theme 3 - Renewable energy sources.
| Renewable energy sources | ||
|---|---|---|
| S/N | Architects | Direct quotes |
| 1 | Architect A | “The best one to further suit our needs is solar panels. Sunrays are abundant in Africa. The principle is that it should be at the highest point of the building. So that it will trap adequate rays from the sun.” |
| 2 | Architect B | “We can have solar panels on the roof, solar panels on the doors, solar panels on the windows. I think we can easily get it into the facade.” |
| 3 | Architect D | “The initial installation cost is very discouraging, but solar panels are a great invention. I have always imagined building a house with panels as roofs that can stay off the grid. I think Tesla created one recently, so you should check and use those panels as coverings for interactive spaces.” |
While discussing the incorporation of nature and greenery, the architects all agreed that the incorporation of greenery is a good use of the courtyard, and adding potted plants and planters in the interior spaces will not improve the indoor air quality. However, it will also increase the visual appeal. Architect B suggested creating green roofs and green verandas. Architect C mentioned the use of potted plants and accessible courtyards. Architect D also mentioned that the essence of building courtyards is to create a green space (
Theme 4 - Incorporating nature and greenery.
| Incorporating nature and greenery | ||
|---|---|---|
| S/N | Architects | Direct quotes |
| 1 | Architect B | “Maybe creating more green spaces, like green roofs, verandas, etc. We talk about introducing courtyards, too.” |
| 2 | Architect C | “We created very interesting planters within the spaces. We created a green balcony. And then we added some potted plants here and there. |
| 3 | Architect D | “Like I said, if you have a courtyard, you should plant trees. What other plans do you have for the space? Putting real plants in rooms, small Bonsai trees, and other plants will improve indoor air quality by using up all the carbon emitted.” |
One major limiting factor emphasized by all the Architects was cost. Architect A noted that the required PV panels and other components are expensive. Architect B discussed the initial cost and the lifecycle cost analysis, which will eventually pay off over time. Architect C admitted it is still the best option despite the high installation cost. Architect D further corroborates that the initial cost discourages many clients as shown in
Theme 5 - High initial cost.
| High initial cost | ||
|---|---|---|
| S/N | Architects | Direct quotes |
| 1 | Architect A | “The biggest challenge to implementing this renewable energy is cost. They are usually expensive.” |
| 2 | Architect B | “Although the initial cost will be higher, in the long run, it will make sense.” |
| 3 | Architect C | “One of the challenges would be the depth of understanding of net zero energy. There is this misconception that a good building should be costly. Granted, things are expensive, but the truth about it is that it is not the most expensive building that is the best.” |
| 4 | Architect D | “The initial cost of installation is very discouraging.” |
Hiring skilled professionals is often a hassle due to their high service charge or unavailability. Architect B noted that it is one thing to know the principles, and it is another to implement them. Architect D noted that people do not employ the services of experts; instead, they engage cheaper alternatives. These observations closely interact with
Theme 6 - Lack of technical skills and expertise.
| Lack of technical skills and expertise | ||
|---|---|---|
| S/N | Architects | Direct quotes |
| 1 | Architect B | “You know the principles well, but do you have the technical expertise to assemble them and make them work? What about the client’s financial constraints to employ professionals?” |
| 3 | Architect D | “Every expert must be paid, and people do not want to spend money, so they just get a random person to do it cheaply, which might take you far from your objective.” |
It was also observed during the interviews that some clients have reservations about integrating these principles, such as courtyards, expansive windows, and renewable energy. Architect A pointed out that it is the architect’s responsibility to convince the client about the benefits of these principles. Architect B explained that the reason for the client’s reservation is the cost, and Architect C noted that, despite the options available, it is still the client’s choice as shown in
Theme 7 - Client apprehension.
| Client apprehension | ||
|---|---|---|
| S/N | Architects | Direct quotes |
| 1 | Architect A | “The essence of an architect doing a design is to convince the client that this is the best design, the architect should know the pros and cons, and be able to convince the client that this is the best.” |
| 2 | Architect B | “What about the client’s financial constraints? When you tell the client, Sir, we must introduce this principle to the building, and the client cannot afford those things, they become issues.” |
| 3 | Architect C | “I think first, as designers and architects, we must understand that we are providing a solution to the building. We must also understand that we are dealing with human beings with choices and preferences. The third thing we must know is that we are dealing with different kinds of human beings with different orientations and ideologies.” |
Since computer-aided design (CAD) was introduced, many software programs have been invented to aid building design and analysis. Architect A explained that presenting analytical reports will convince clients. Architect D also confirmed the existence of analytical software as shown in
Theme 8 - BIM forecasting.
| BIM forecasting | ||
|---|---|---|
| S/N | Architects | Direct quotes |
| 1 | Architect A | “Of course, it has now gone beyond that. You are now using BIM to calculate before you even start building. So, while you are designing, there is software that could help you determine some of those things. You can come up with a BIM analysis for the client; there is software that will tell us how the building will perform. Look at this model with no courtyard; everything is sealed. The BIM analyses show that you will use two or three times the energy to service the building without the courtyard, but with the courtyard, you will use less. These are the ways the architects convince the client.” |
| 2 | Architect D | “There are software programs, I am sure there are, that can be used to check the building’s performance, try the Carbolife calculator.” |
The architects all emphasized the importance of educating clients about these principles as shown in
Theme 9 - Client education.
| Client education | ||
|---|---|---|
| S/N | Architects | Direct quotes |
| 1 | Architect C | “Your client is not primarily your business partner but your friend. So, you take it from that level and explain to him what is current regarding research. |
| 2 | Architect D | “There is so much you can do or recommend as an architect, but if your client is not educated, you might be frustrated doing the project; you need to let them know the potential of these principles.” |
During the interviews with the managers, five principal themes were identified.
The managers agreed that using renewable energy sources like Photovoltaic panels is highly beneficial, but they cannot fully implement it in their buildings because of the cost as shown in
Theme 1 - Renewable energy.
| Renewable energy | ||
|---|---|---|
| S/N | Managers | Direct quotes |
| 1 | Manager A | “We have solar panels that we use to light some parts of the buildings; you might have observed those lights on the walls outside and even security lights.” |
| 2 | Manager B | “We have panels, but only for exterior and security lights; they cannot carry the load of the things we use in the buildings.” |
| 3 | Manager C | “We have panels for minor operations, but cannot power the building with them.” |
According to the managers, guests are not proactive or supportive regarding energy conservation as shown in
Theme 2 - Guest comfort/Behavior.
| Guest comfort/Behavior | ||
|---|---|---|
| S/N | Managers | Direct quotes |
| 1 | Manager A | “During the day or when the weather is cool, we turn off the generator, but our panels are not strong enough to power ACs, so we provide fans in the rooms. However, most guests complain and create scenes demanding that the AC be powered, and we cannot afford to lose customers.” |
| 2 | Manager B | “It is hard to control guest behavior. Imagine asking your guests to turn off their ACs when leaving the rooms; they will not, and if they do, it is a problem.” |
| 3 | Manager C | “Guests always leave everything on, from the AC to Lights and sockets.” |
While explaining the limitations of implementing renewable energy in their buildings, they all mentioned cost as an underlying factor, as most of the required components are imported and, as a result, are not pocket-friendly as shown in
Theme 3 - High cost.
| High cost | ||
|---|---|---|
| S/N | Managers | Direct quotes |
| 1 | Manager A | “We have tried to get more panels, but the quotation can build us a fully furnished 2-bedroom.” |
| 2 | Manager B | “If we are going to get the ones that will power the building, it is too expensive.” |
| 3 | Manager C | “Running cost accumulates, and the installation cost is high too.” |
Aside from cost, another major limiting factor is a lack of technical expertise. Manager A explained that to get a quotation for the required components, it was a challenge to find professionals. Manager B noted that they have some maintenance unit staff with applicable skills based on their discipline as shown in
Theme 4 - Technical expertise.
| Technical expertise | ||
|---|---|---|
| S/N | Managers | Direct quotes |
| 1 | Manager A | “We do not have them around here like that.” |
| 2 | Manager B | “We have little idea of operating it, but we do not have the equipment.” |
The use of smart systems was applauded as a game-changer, as it helps manage energy consumption to an extent, and if implemented on a larger scale, will significantly reduce energy consumption as shown in
Theme 5 - Smart systems.
| Smart systems | ||
|---|---|---|
| S/N | Managers | Direct quotes |
| 1 | Manager A | “Yes! I know them, I have one on my stairs and my kitchen counter too, it is amazing what technology has evolved into. However, here we only have it for our security lights.” |
| 2 | Manager B | “Our security lights are automated if that counts. Our rooms also use key cards, so the lights only come on when the doors are unlocked, but the system does not control the refrigerators.” |
Furthermore, while interviewing the energy expert, six principal themes were identified.
The expert pointed out that it is imperative to know the energy demand of the building in terms of fittings, components, and operations that require constant energy usage. He highlighted lighting, ACs, kitchen appliances, laundry, and internet systems as baseline loads as shown in
Theme 1 - Energy demand assessment and load profiling.
| Energy demand assessment and load profiling | ||
|---|---|---|
| S/N | Expert | Direct quotes |
| 1 | Expert A | “The first major factor is the energy demand assessment. That is what I mean by load profile. What are the things they want to power?” |
The expert noted that Nigeria is blessed with abundant solar energy, and to optimally use it, there should be unobstructed access in terms of site conditions and shading as shown in
Theme 2 - Solar potential and site conditions.
| Solar potential and site conditions | ||
|---|---|---|
| S/N | Expert | Direct quotes |
| 1 | Expert A | “Nigeria is one of the countries God blessed with solar energy. We should be able to install panels in a place without obstruction on site.” |
After the energy demand assessment, the system size should be calculated in excess to have a backup supply when the sun is down as shown in
Theme 3 - System sizing and oversizing strategy.
| System sizing and oversizing strategy | ||
|---|---|---|
| S/N | Expert | Direct quotes |
| 1 | Expert A | “Let us assume the energy required is 10 kW. You cannot base your installation on the energy required. It must be times two or times three. Excess energy will be stored in batteries.” |
Incorporating wind turbines and solar water heaters can augment solar panels in net zero energy systems as shown in
Theme 4 - Hybrid systems.
| Hybrid systems | ||
|---|---|---|
| S/N | Expert | Direct quotes |
| 1 | Expert A | “There is a wind turbine, and there are small-scale ones. Even with no sun, a wind turbine will take over, like during the night.” |
A well-designed renewable energy system can fail without proper maintenance as shown in
Theme 5 - Technical support and maintenance.
| Technical support and maintenance | ||
|---|---|---|
| S/N | Expert | Direct quotes |
| 1 | Expert A | “It can be done with local experts or remote monitoring, like using smart energy management systems for efficient tracking.” |
Cost is a significant barrier to net zero energy systems installation; return on investment is achievable over time. However, the initial installations would be expensive and can be attributed to the need for overdesign to ensure sufficiency as shown in
Theme 6 - Cost, ROI and financial planning.
| Cost, ROI and financial planning | ||
|---|---|---|
| S/N | Expert | Direct quotes |
| 1 | Expert A | “Cost implication is just a major factor to consider.” |
The findings reveal a socio-technical tension. While Architects (Technical subsystem) advocate for passive design and BIM to achieve NZEB, Hotel and Facility Managers (Social Subsystem) are constrained by immediate operational costs and guest expectations. This suggests that NZEB implementation in Lagos is not a failure of technology, but a failure of socio-technical alignment.
Cross-stakeholder perspective comparison on NZEB implementation.
| CROSS-STAKEHOLDER perspective comparison on NZEB implementation | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | Architects’ perspective | Hotel managers’ perspective | Energy expert’s perspective | Identified tension/Interaction |
|
|
Advocates for full integration on facades and roofs, even suggesting panels as interactive site components | Uses panels primarily for minor operations like exterior and security lighting due to high load concerns | Recommends “oversizing” systems (2x-3x the load) and using hybrid models (wind/solar) for reliability |
|
|
|
Emphasizes building orientation, courtyards, and natural ventilation to reduce the need for active cooling | Reports that guests “create scenes” demanding AC even when weather is cool, and often leave units running in empty rooms | Focuses on rigorous load profiling to ensure the system can meet baseline energy demands like AC and central systems |
|
|
|
Notes that clients often bypass experts for unskilled persons to save money, leading to implementation failures | Finds it a challenge to locate qualified professionals and relies on basic skills of internal maintenance staff | Warns that without proper maintenance and remote smart monitoring, expensive systems are imminently wasted money |
|
|
|
Acknowledges high initial costs but argues that lifecycle analysis proves the high initial investment is justified in the long run | Views costs as prohibitive, stating that solar quotations can equal the cost of constructing buildings | Attributes high costs to the necessity of over-designing for energy sufficiency and battery backups |
|
|
|
Promotes BIM forecasting and analytical reports (e.g., carbolife) to prove performance to clients | Applauds smart systems as a game-changer but currently limits its use to key-card lights and automated security sensors | Suggests smart energy management systems specifically for efficient remote tracking and maintenance |
|
This study examined the perspectives of key stakeholders, including architects, hotel managers, and an energy expert, on implementing Net Zero Energy Building (NZEB) principles in boutique hotels in Lagos, Nigeria. The findings reveal a collective recognition of the value of NZEB adoption, with stakeholders acknowledging both the positive environmental impact and market advantages of energy-efficient hospitality facilities. However, the study highlights significant barriers, including high initial costs, limited technical expertise, and a lack of targeted policy incentives. These constraints have resulted in the partial application of NZEB strategies, with a tendency to prioritize passive design measures while overlooking the integration of renewable energy technologies and advanced energy management systems. Due to their scale, design flexibility, and independent operational structures, the study concludes that boutique hotels present a strategic opportunity for advancing NZEB adoption in Nigeria’s hospitality sector. Their smaller footprint and flexibility make them suitable for piloting innovative design and energy solutions that could serve as models for broader implementation. Precise efforts will be required to overcome systemic barriers and harmonize stakeholder priorities with sustainable development goals.
This study offers significant insights into stakeholder viewpoints about implementing NZEB principles in boutique hotels in Lagos, although certain limits must be recognized. First, the sample size was limited to eight participants, constraining the generalization of the findings to the broader hospitality industry. While efficient in gaining informed participants, the purposive and snowball sampling methods may have increased selection bias by concentrating on persons within similar professional networks. Second, the study relied exclusively on self-reported observations obtained through interviews, without directly measuring building energy performances or operational data. As a result, the findings reflect stakeholder viewpoints and not quantitative validation of NZEB outcomes. Despite these limitations, the study makes several significant contributions. It provides one of the few empirically grounded examinations of NZEB adoption in Nigeria’s hospitality sector, moving beyond purely technical or policy-focused analyses to incorporate practitioner and operator perspectives. By highlighting the specific barriers, opportunities, and motivators identified by stakeholders, the research offers a context-sensitive framework for guiding NZEB implementation in boutique hotels. Furthermore, the study underscores the role of market drivers, collaborative design processes, and targeted policy interventions as critical enablers for sustainable transformation in the sector. Unlike European studies where policy drives NZEB, this study finds that in Nigeria, individual client wealth is the primary determinant. These contributions can inform architects, hotel operators, policymakers, and energy professionals seeking to advance energy efficiency and renewable integration within Nigeria’s hospitality industry.
The original contributions presented in the study are included in the article/supplementary material, further inquiries can be directed to the corresponding author.
The studies involving humans were approved by Covenant Health Research Ethics Committee (CHREC). The studies were conducted in accordance with the local legislation and institutional requirements. All the participants provided written informed consent to participate in this study.
EE: Formal Analysis, Methodology, Supervision, Writing – review and editing, Resources. TS: Data curation, Investigation, Methodology, Writing – original draft, Writing – review and editing, Resources.
The authors wish to express their gratitude to Covenant University for providing the resources and support necessary to undertake this research. We extend our appreciation to the Covenant University Centre for Research, Innovation, and Development (CUCRID) for their invaluable guidance, encouragement, and access to research facilities throughout the course of this study.
The author(s) declared that this work was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.
The author(s) declared that generative AI was not used in the creation of this manuscript.
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