Schneider electric technology supports modernisation of Hotel Passage in Brno

Schneider Electric has contributed to the modernisation of the historic Passage Hotel in Brno, providing technology that has improved operational efficiency by up to 30%. The renovation of the building, originally constructed in 1928, aimed to combine design and functionality with sustainability and energy efficiency.

The hotel, which had experienced years of use and changing circumstances, underwent a comprehensive upgrade to meet current standards expected of hotels and conference centres. Schneider Electric implemented its EcoStruxure Building platform, integrating multiple systems including heating, lighting, ventilation, power, and security into a single intelligent management system.

A total of 1,250 KNX control points were installed across the building, collecting data on temperature, occupancy, and lighting in real time. The building management system (BMS) uses this data to automate operations. For instance, when a guest leaves a room, the system automatically adjusts the temperature, turns off lights, and closes blinds to reduce energy consumption.

The BMS also connects with the hotel’s reservation system. Rooms can be prepared based on arrival times, with heating or cooling activated in advance. Energy use is further optimised through the building’s mechanical systems, which can switch between different heat sources based on real-time cost and availability.

According to Radek Hamrle from LIVIN’IN, the project’s system integrator, this level of integration allows the hotel to respond rapidly to energy price fluctuations. Power supply reliability has improved by 40%, and overall energy use has been reduced by up to 30%.

Guest rooms are also equipped with user-friendly controls that allow visitors to adjust their comfort settings. The SE8000 series room controller manages heating and cooling depending on the season, and room settings can be controlled remotely from the reception. Bathrooms feature underfloor heating, and the system responds to guest presence via room key cards.

Common areas such as conference spaces and restaurants are equipped with advanced lighting systems integrated with the DALI protocol, allowing for customised lighting scenes and shading. Audio and video systems can also be connected across different rooms, with automated climate control ensuring a consistent environment during events.

The renovation of Hotel Passage began in 2016 and was completed in 2020. The building now includes 103 rooms, a conference centre for over 1,000 people, a restaurant, art installations, and a yoga studio. The project aimed to respect the hotel’s architectural heritage while aligning with modern standards of building performance.

Schneider Electric’s involvement reflects its broader focus on smart, efficient building solutions. The company specialises in electrification, automation, and digitalisation, offering integrated technologies to support sustainability and operational control in commercial and industrial settings.