Analysis of the electricity demand profile of a ski resort: characterization and identification of demand management opportunities

In recent years, Québec’s ski resorts have struggled with mounting electricity expenses. Warmer winters and growing stress on the provincial grid have driven up the energy needed for snow-making, particularly in the run-up to the holiday season. This significant cost is primarily driven by demand charges incurred from the intensive use of snow-making equipment prior to operating hours. As a result, ski resorts often spend tens of thousands of dollars on snow-making, which can account for 17% to 38% of their total electricity bill. This issue is expected to intensify in the near future, placing additional financial and operational strain on ski resorts in Québec and across Canada. While some ski station operators have begun exploring alternative control strategies and new technologies, there remains a pressing need for dedicated research into load management solutions for this sector. Previous studies have assessed the overall impact of snow-making at various resorts and documented mitigation strategies. The proposed project aims to: (a) conduct an on-site assessment of the electric load profiles of key circuits (snow-making, ski lifts, lighting) at a large ski resort, and (b) identify practical measures to reduce the resulting aggregated load.

Faculty Supervisor:

José Candanedo

Student:

Partner:

Association des stations de ski du Québec;Corporation ski et golf Mont Orford

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services

University:

Université de Sherbrooke

Program: