Soldier Hollow Nordic Center adopts renewable energy

MIDWAY, Utah — Soldier Hollow Nordic Center has partnered with Heber Light & Power to obtain a source of renewable energy. 

The Clear Peaks Program is expected to provide 100% of the Nordic Center’s energy needs, according to a press release. From the Center’s snow-making machines to building lights, everything will be powered by renewable sources. 

“We are thrilled to partner with Heber Light & Power to ensure that Soldier Hollow’s energy needs are coming from renewable resources,” said Luke Bodensteiner, general manager for Soldier Hollow Nordic Center. 

Additionally, Bodensteiner said that sustainability is a priority in winter sports. 

For example, the International Biathlon Union announced a sustainability policy in 2020. According to its website, the IBU’s goal is to become a leader in sustainable sports practices by 2026.

Renewable energy

Nearly half (45%) of energy distributed by Heber Light & Power is done so with renewable resources, per the press release. Hydro, solar, thermal, and wind sources produce the energy. 

For every megawatt of energy that is sold through the Clear Peaks program, the company retires one renewable energy certificate. When a REC is retired, the entity retiring the certificate maintains it forever, per Conservice ESG. The entity that retires a renewable energy certificate is the only one that can claim an environmental benefit. 

“This initiative will benefit the Heber Valley community, the kids in our sports programs, and visitors from around Utah and the world,” Bodensteiner said. 

Related: New program aims to use renewable energy to power Utah communities by 2030