How a family-run hotel became a model for energy efficiency
A boutique hotel in Zabbar, Malta, is taking sustainability to the next level with expert support from the Enterprise Europe Network, transforming its wellness area with solar heating and smart infrastructure upgrades.
Nestled in Malta’s peaceful countryside between the historic town of Zabbar and the seaside village of Marsascala, Mulberries combines heritage charm with modern hospitality. This family-run boutique hotel offers guests a tranquil escape in a restored property featuring 19 elegantly designed rooms, sun terraces, a landscaped garden, cellars, a meditation chamber and a purpose-built wellness area.
In 2024, Mulberries took a significant step forward by expanding their operations with a new wellness area, including an indoor swimming pool. While this addition enhanced the guest experience, it presented a major challenge: increased energy consumption for heating and operations.
“The wellness area was created in response to a growing demand from our guests, who are looking for a tranquil stay and a restorative, holistic travel experience,” explained Aaron Abela, architect, owner and managing director at Mulberries. “The main sustainability challenge was ensuring that the facilities – particularly the indoor pool heating, thermal equipment, lighting and water usage – would be as energy-efficient and environmentally responsible as possible.”
Traditional heating methods using boilers and electric heaters were neither cost-effective nor aligned with the hotel’s sustainability vision. The company needed expert guidance to explore renewable energy solutions without compromising on guest comfort or incurring high operational costs.
A strategic alliance
The solution came through an association with The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, a member of the Enterprise Europe Network. The first contact was made during an event focused on sustainability.
“It was evident that the team at Mulberries were open to collaboration and keen to explore how they could reduce their environmental impact,” recalled Mel Aquilina, marketing and communication executive at The Malta Chamber. “Their openness to innovation, combined with a hands-on approach to improving operations showed clear potential for positive change and long-term commitment to sustainability goals.”
The collaboration centred around EENergy, an EU-funded initiative managed by the Enterprise Europe Network that helps small businesses to improve energy efficiency. An initial energy audit identified key areas for improvement. Based on this, the Network team helped the hotel design a renewable energy strategy focused on expanding the hotel’s solar thermal system. The project also included upgrades to pipe insulation, water systems and energy monitoring.
The technical challenge was significant: integrating eight new solar panels covering 18.8 square metres on the east-facing side of the building, while ensuring seamless operation with existing systems and preserving the architectural heritage. The complexity of the project required tailored expert advice, especially with regard to navigating costs, finding suppliers and the logistics of setting it all up.
Real results, lasting change
The results have exceeded expectations. With the additional solar thermal collectors, Mulberries is set to generate an estimated 26 800kWh annually, representing a 72.9 % increase in thermal energy production compared to the previous system. This significant boost will cover a substantial portion of the indoor pool’s yearly energy needs.
But the impact extends beyond energy savings. The improved efficiency has positioned the business as a green hospitality leader in Malta.
“The Enterprise Europe Network has been instrumental in supporting Mulberries’ journey towards greater energy efficiency and sustainability,” said Abela. “This upgrade not only reduced our environmental footprint but also improved operational efficiency, aligning with our commitment to eco-conscious and sustainable hospitality.”
Looking ahead, Mulberries plans to continue embracing greener solutions across its operations, expanding investments in photovoltaic panels and working towards a recognised sustainability certification.
“Providing support to businesses on their sustainability journey is at the heart of what the Enterprise Europe Network stands for,” said Alistair Grima, sustainability advisor at The Malta Chamber. “Helping companies like Mulberries turn environmental ambition into practical action is what makes our work so meaningful, and it is how we help make tangible strides towards Europe’s green transition.”