Nassfeld Renewable Energy Community Sets Standards For Sustainable Energy In Alpine Tourism
Carinthia's largest ski resort, Nassfeld, is underpinning its path to becoming Austria's most sustainable tourism region with an ambitious step, in addition to the Austrian Ecolabel for Destinations: the establishment of the Nassfeld Renewable Energy Community (EEG Nassfeld). The community has been active since November 2024 – a pioneering project for energy self-sufficiency and sustainability in renowned ski and tourism resorts in the Alps.
The core of the project is the power supply from local, renewable sources such as the Tröpolach hydroelectric power plant and innovative photovoltaic systems, including those at the new Tröglbahn mountain station at almost 1,400 meters above sea level. This combination not only ensures an environmentally friendly energy supply for the ski lifts and snowmaking technology, but also creates independence from fossil fuels and a clear competitive advantage for tourism destinations of the future.
The region's leading cable car companies – Bergbahnen Nassfeld Pramollo AG, Madritschen Seilbahnen, and Nassfeld-Liftgesellschaft – are actively driving the energy transition in the mountains under the leadership of Elisabeth Guggenberger (Managing Director of EEG Nassfeld). Supported by the Climate and Energy Fund, the project is part of the Austrian Climate and Energy Model Regions.
Technical implementation and future outlook
The Nassfeld Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) currently includes 58 metering points. Starting in October 2025, it will be opened to additional commercial businesses in the ski area – hotels, restaurants, and craft businesses can join and become part of the regional green electricity grid.
Christian Krisper, CEO of Bergbahnen Nassfeld, emphasizes: "With the Nassfeld Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG Nassfeld), we are creating real added value for the environment, the region, and our guests. Sustainability is not a buzzword for us, but a lived responsibility."
Klaus Herzog, Managing Director of the Nassfeld Lift Company, also sees great potential: "As the economic engine of the region, we want to lead the way – the Nassfeld Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG Nassfeld) is a strong foundation for a resilient and climate-friendly tourism future."
The technical implementation and support will be provided by Nobile, a company specializing in energy communities. The expansion of additional PV systems and smart control systems is already planned.
"The Nassfeld Energy Community is a milestone for the region and a strong signal for sustainable tourism. We are proud to be pursuing this path with our partners and will continue to focus on innovative solutions for a green future," Elisabeth Guggenberger concluded.
