Feasibility Study for the Implementation of a Renewable Energy Generation System at a Winter Sports Resort

ABSTRACT This study investigates the feasibility of integrating renewable energy sources into ski resort operations, addressing the current gap in sustainable energy solutions for high‐altitude tourism facilities. While previous research has explored general renewable energy applications, limited studies have focused on their effectiveness in ski resorts, considering seasonal variability and energy demand fluctuations. The proposed approach employs an optimization framework incorporating real‐world meteorological and operational data to assess the viability of renewable energy integration. Key findings indicate that photovoltaic systems, when combined with energy storage, can supply up to 70% of a ski resort's energy demand under optimal conditions, therefore demonstrating the technical and economic feasibility of sustainable energy transition in ski resorts. Specifically, for the case study presented, the payback period is estimated to be 8 years, with a final net present value of around 11.6 million euros, and around 628 tons of CO 2 emission savings per year.