ELECTRIFICATION OF THE SUMMITTHE SWITCH TO CLEAN ENERGY

We’re saying goodbye to diesel and hello to clean, hydroelectric energy! After seven years of planning, we’ve hit a major milestone in reducing our environmental impact. Since 2014, the Summit has been powered by two 600v diesel generators — everything from the Summit itself to the iconic gondola ride. Now, we’re plugged into BC Hydro’s clean electricity thanks to the new power line!

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

This shift is huge for the environment. By switching to hydro, we’ll cut over 400 tonnes of CO2e per year—that’s like taking 123 cars off the road or powering 269 homes annually. Not only does this move reduce our carbon footprint, but it also brings us closer to our goal of operating with minimal environmental impact.

A lot of thought and care went into how we managed the land during this transition. In addition to exploring different routes for the power line, efforts were made to minimize environmental impacts, especially in culturally sensitive areas. Trees that did require removal were repurposed responsibly. Culturally significant trees were given to local First Nations, larger trees were collected by the Squamish Community Forest, and smaller trees were either chipped or left on-site to enrich the ecosystem and soil.

SEVEN YEARS IN THE MAKING

This project took time and patience — seven years, to be exact. To put it in perspective: when we started, the kids of some project leads were in grade school… and now they’re in university! Our commitment to clean energy dates back to 2012, and that long-term commitment and dedication was crucial to the project’s success. Throughout the planning and execution, we focused on finding the best approach, managing risks effectively and addressing challenges as they arose. There were plenty of ups and downs along the way, but with determination and teamwork, we stuck with it and powered through to the finish line.

The project itself was massive: an 82-pole power line, with the largest pole standing 95 feet tall and weighing an impressive 10,000 pounds. It was no small feat, but we only had a small, specialized team of top-tier professionals throughout the project.

LOOKING INTO THE FUTURE

We’re excited for what’s next! Our mission is to make a real difference by reducing our environmental footprint and boosting sustainability. This legacy project reflects our commitment to stewardship, with the goal of thriving for more than seven generations, while leaving a lasting positive impact on both the environment and the community. By switching to BC Hydro’s renewable energy, we’re cutting emissions and protecting the beauty of our surroundings. This is just the start. Our journey to a greener, more eco-friendly gondola experience is only getting started, and we’re pumped to keep pushing forward!