Photo Credit: Wikipedia.org

Photo Credit: Wikipedia.org
Gore Mountain Photo Credit: Wikipedia.org
At the beginning of the week, Governor Andrew Cuomo finalized an agreement for 3 NY ski areas to go solar.

The ski areas, which include Gore, Belleayre, and Whiteface are all making provisions to obtain solar energy for operations in the coming future.

Here Are the Specifics According to the State Press Release:

“By using renewable energy to power major operations at these world-class ski resorts, we are building upon this administration’s commitment to expand this state’s use of renewal energy, strengthen this important, job-creating economic sector, and reduce New York’s carbon footprint,” Governor Cuomo said. “This exciting news is just one more reason to visit one of New York’s premier ski resorts this winter.”

As per the agreement, ski areas will commit to entering into a 25-year partnership with Borrego Solar in order to provide sustainable energy that will operate lifts and snow making machines.

“Borrego’s projections indicate that the three ski resorts could save as much $14-million over the 25-year period, utilizing more than 10 megawatts of solar power.”

Not only will the initiative save money for the ski area but will also substantially reduce the carbon footprint for all the ski areas involved.

“With this initiative ORDA will substantially reduce its carbon footprint essentially akin to removing over 46,000 cars from the road over the life of the agreement,” said ORDA chairman Pat Barrett. “We want to make sure that this wonderful recreational sport stays around for generations to come.” 

Photo Credit: Wayne National Forest via Flickr Creative Commons
Photo Credit: Wayne National Forest via Flickr Creative Commons
The switch to solar is a continuation of a trend that is growing in ski communities around the country. As of now Whistler Blackcomb powers their resort solely by hydro electric power.

Now, the Empire State is following suit.

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