Casino de la Vallée Bets on Sustainability with €6.3M Energy Efficiency Upgrade – Breaking News!
SAINT-VINCENT, ITALY – October 6, 2024 – In a move signaling a significant commitment to sustainability and operational resilience, the Casino de la Vallée in Saint-Vincent, Italy, has signed a landmark 15-year Energy Performance Contract (EPC) with CVA Smart Energy. This €6.3 million investment promises a dramatic overhaul of the gaming house’s energy systems, aiming for a minimum 10% reduction in primary energy consumption – equivalent to 3,065.8 MWh annually. This is big news for the Aosta Valley region and a compelling example of how businesses are adapting to a changing energy landscape.
A Multi-Million Euro Investment in Future-Proofing
The agreement, finalized on Friday, October 3rd, will see CVA Smart Energy spearhead a comprehensive modernization project. Key initiatives include a complete redevelopment of the casino’s refrigeration plant, the installation of a Combined Heat and Power (CHP) trigeneration system – a highly efficient method of generating electricity, heat, and cooling – and the creation of a rooftop photovoltaic system to harness solar energy. An advanced energy monitoring system will provide real-time data and optimize performance. CVA Smart Energy will fully fund the €6.3 million project, taking on the responsibility of building and managing the new systems.
What is an Energy Performance Contract (EPC)?
Energy Performance Contracts are becoming increasingly popular as a way for organizations to improve energy efficiency without significant upfront capital expenditure. Unlike traditional energy upgrades, the cost of the project is covered by the savings generated. The energy service company (ESCO), in this case CVA Smart Energy, guarantees a certain level of energy savings, and the client – the Casino de la Vallée – pays based on the actual savings achieved. This ‘performance-based’ approach aligns incentives and ensures accountability. Think of it as a win-win: the casino gets a modernized, efficient facility, and CVA Smart Energy gets a return on its investment through long-term energy savings.
Beyond CVA Smart Energy’s Investment: Casino’s Additional Commitment
The Casino de la Vallée isn’t just relying on CVA Smart Energy’s investment. They are also contributing €2.2 million to redevelop the power center and install an emergency generator, demonstrating a holistic approach to ensuring operational continuity. This is particularly crucial for a 24/7 operation like a casino, where even a brief power outage can have significant consequences. The aging infrastructure was a key driver for this project, according to Rodolfo Buat, sole director of the Casino de la Vallée.
A Boost for the Local Community and a Model for Sustainable Tourism
“This project represents a concrete example of how collaboration between public bodies can generate value for the territory,” stated Enrico De Girolamo, CEO of CVA Smart Energy. “The EPC signed with Casinò de la Vallée is the result of a rigorous technical and administrative process, which allows us to make skills, technologies and investments available to accompany the Gaming House towards more efficient and sustainable energy management.” Buat echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the benefits for the entire local community, both environmentally and economically. This initiative positions the Casino de la Vallée as a leader in sustainable tourism, attracting environmentally conscious visitors and contributing to a greener future for the Aosta Valley.
The move by the Casino de la Vallée isn’t just about reducing costs; it’s about building a more resilient and sustainable future. As energy prices continue to fluctuate and environmental concerns grow, investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy sources are becoming increasingly vital for businesses of all sizes. This project serves as a powerful example of how strategic partnerships and innovative financing models like EPCs can drive positive change and unlock significant benefits for both organizations and the communities they serve. Keep checking back with archyde.com for further updates on this developing story and insights into the world of sustainable energy.
