The Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center is celebrating a major sustainability milestone, representatives say, as the Maryland-based hotel fully energized its rooftop solar installation Oct. 21.
The rooftop solar project spans about 3.5 acres across the roof of the resort’s convention center. Officials say the project features 4,696 solar panels, and will generate nearly 3.4 GWh of renewable energy every year. Not only will the solar array aid the hotel’s energy strategy with bill savings, but it further represents a “significant investment” in the complex’s sustainability strategy.
“This project is an important example of how we are partnering with Marriott International to invest in initiatives that support our shared conservation goals and create long-term value for our shareholders,” says Mark Fioravanti, president and CEO of Ryman Hospitality Properties, the owner of Gaylord National.
“With this project complete, we’re reducing demand on the local power grid while improving operational efficiency and strengthening the resort’s climate resiliency for years to come.”
Gaylord National representatives expect the project to supply up to 20% of the resort’s entire electrical load during peak production periods. Additionally, the solar array will offset up to 50% of the electricity purchased from the local utility company.
Part of the wider solution
The solar project will operate as an arm of Marriott International, according to officials, and is yet another investment by Ryman Hospitality. The PV array will combine with the Gaylord National’s existing combined heat and power system and building efficiency technologies, further boosting the Marriott International sustainability goals.
“The addition of solar power strengthens the foundation we have established through our Cogen system and other efficiency investments,” says Derek Brauner, director of engineering at Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center. “By generating electricity on-site, capturing thermal energy that would otherwise be wasted and continuously monitoring our building systems, we are able to operate more efficiently.
“The solar array is another important component of a broader resort-wide strategy focused on energy efficiency, resource conservation and long-term sustainability.”
First partially activated in June 2026, the project has generated about 495 MWh of renewable electricity in about four months. This is equivalent to powering about 48 average American households for one year, and avoids about 333 metric tons of carbon emissions.
The resort has also partnered with the Food Recovery Network to donate surplus prepared food, furthering sustainability for the resort. The resort staff has contributed of more than 115,000 pounds of donated food to date, helping provide about 30,000 meals to hunger fighting organizations every year.
“Gaylord National’s solar project demonstrates how large hospitality properties can integrate renewable energy while maintaining seamless operations,” says Jeff Bedard, founder and CEO of Rev Energy Ventures. “The project’s scale highlights the role on-site renewable energy can play in supporting both operational efficiency and sustainability goals.”
Tags: commercial, commercial and industrial, Maryland, project, rooftop solar, sustainability
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