Granite Peak Ski Area receives Sustainable Slope Grant

Granite Peak is getting help to honor its ongoing mission of maintaining a sustainable ski area thanks in part to a grant they received for energy efficient lighting.

The National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) awarded Granite Peak one of it’s annual Sustainable Slope Grants with a new in-kind grant of 10 Snow-Bright light fixtures from Ultra Tech Lighting, valued at $7,000. The lighting technology, which employs magnetic induction lights suited for night skiing, is designed to offer more precision, significant energy efficiency and less harsh glare than conventional lights.

“We’ll be able to focus the lights directly onto the trails with better precision and eliminate the majority of light pollution that’s associated with traditional night skiing operations,” said Vicki Baumann, Granite Peak operations manager.

Not only will neighbors appreciate the reduction of light overspill, but also the nocturnal wildlife often found in such a state park could experience fewer disturbances with low intensity lighting.

Improving visual impact, Snow-Bright lights penetrate into the snow instead of reflecting off of it like a mirror. This refraction of light minimizes the harsh glare on snow for safer and more enjoyable skiing.

The energy efficient lights reduce energy consumption and costs by 50-70%, while having an average life span of more than 100,000 hours where conventional lights are a fraction of that. This greatly reduces maintenance costs associated with changing out light bulbs and keeps excessive amounts out of landfills.

Baumann says the shift to more efficient, high quality lighting is an important step in upgrading the facilities. “We’re in the process of switching over up to 500 lights which will take a couple of seasons to complete,” said Baumann.

“We’re extremely pleased to receive this grant as it allows us to continue moving toward our ongoing goals of energy conservation,” she said.