Smarter energy use, new technology and collaboration preserve future mountain experiences

Climate change poses a challenge for us and other ski resorts, both in Europe and globally. But the trend can be reversed – with clear goals, determination and cooperation.

Energy efficiency and electrification for a preserved mountain environment

At SkiStar, we have been investing in both energy efficiency and electrification of our vehicle fleet for several years to reduce our climate impact.

In 2021, we set ambitious sustainability targets with the aim of halving our CO2 emissions by 2030. As part of this, we have invested in electric snowmobiles, tested electric snow groomers and invested in new technology that enables smarter management of snow production, preparation and maintenance. For several years, we have been purchasing electricity exclusively from renewable sources, and all our ski resorts are powered by solar, wind and hydroelectric power.

New technology enables us to conserve resources

‘We care about the Swedish mountain experience, and to ensure white winters in the long term, we need to do more for the climate. Preserving the mountain environment is therefore an important concern for us, and technology plays a major role in this. With smart technology, we can now conserve natural resources in a completely different way. For example, now that we can measure exactly how much snow we need, we can also produce snow exactly as required. This offers major advantages, says Rickard Lindgren, area manager for slopes at SkiStar.

At SkiStar, we use technology from Leica Geosystems to measure snow depth and calculate snow volumes in 3D. Sensors measure the snow depth and the system sends real-time data to the snow groomer operator, who can then spread the snow exactly where it is needed. The technology also makes it easier to handle uneven terrain and differences in elevation.

If the snow depth is over 80 cm, the meter shows blue.

 

‘In the past, we used to drive around with a ruler. We drilled a hole in the snow and measured manually. With today's technology, we get a huge difference in accuracy and efficiency. We can plan the work better and, with a clearer basis for decision-making, we can also create better slopes and skiing environments,’ continues Rickard Lindgren.

Electric snowmobiles from Canada and Sweden

We have also purchased the world's first mass-produced electric snowmobile from the Canadian company Taiga Motors. SkiStar has also invested in the Swedish company Vidde, which is developing a new electric snowmobile with a circular manufacturing process and production in Sweden, outside Skellefteå.

‘We currently have 33 electric snowmobiles in operation, and the plan is to replace them all. In collaboration with Vidde, we are testing the first Swedish-made model on the market, and we have also placed a pre-order for 50 electric snowmobiles, with the aim of having them in operation by next season. These collaborations will take us a long way towards achieving our climate goals and ensuring a circular product,’ says Fanny Sjödin, Sustainability Manager at SkiStar.