A 100% electric snow groomer

Starting in 2023, Val Cenis will be using a 100% electric snow groomer. An innovation that has its place in a ski resort that is a forerunner in sustainable development. The resort is continuing its efforts to imagine the grooming of tomorrow, more respectful of the environment and adapted to the growing needs of holidaymakers.

Val Cenis : grooming innovations

A 100% electric snow groomer: a first in France

Environmental issues are part of Val Cenis' DNA. To offer sustainable skiing, the resort innovates on a daily basis. In 2019, the resort had already tested HVO, a fuel with very low ecological impact, for its grooming machines. This experiment paved the way for a new stage: the adoption, from winter 2022-2023, of the first 100% electric groomer in France.

For three seasons, this new machine from Prinoth maintained the footpaths and toboggan runs at the bottom of the ski area, as close as possible to the houses. Its big advantage: it allowed us to work without noise or direct emissions, for the comfort of local residents and holidaymakers alike. Working in near-total silence also minimizes disturbance to wildlife.

A great experience... and new needs

With the introduction of the Husky E-motionVal Cenis demonstrates that the energy transition in the mountains is not only possible, but essential. This breakthrough is part of a global strategy to reduce the impact of tourism on the environment, while guaranteeing a quality experience for skiers and hikers.

The experiment was a success, but the needs of holidaymakers and the resort have changed. With the strong demand for more play areas (toboggan runs, snowparks, themed boardercross, beginner, pedestrian, snowshoe or Nordic zones), the work involved in grooming and snow preparation has increased considerably. In this context, the limited autonomy of the small electric snow groomer was no longer sufficient. It was therefore replaced by a thermal machine, capable of handling the increased workload.

Val Cenis, always looking to the future

The use of the 100% electric snow groomer enabled the resort's teams and partners to see for themselves the benefits of this machine and the progress that still needs to be made. An enriching experience that marks a real step forward for ski areas.

The next step is the development of snow groomers with additional autonomy in soft, electric or hydrogen motors. Val Cenis remains in constant contact with its partner Prinoth to achieve these objectives.

Ski area energy management

Val Cenisa resort committed to sustainable development, is constantly innovating to combine technological performance with energy efficiency.

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Protecting flora and fauna

Val Cenisa village resort in the heart of Haute Maurienne Vanoise, is firmly committed to preserving its exceptional natural environment.

Les Roches-Blanches: a new chairlift with a low carbon footprint

The Val-Cenis ski area, at the heart of Haute Maurienne Vanoise, is part of a global initiative to improve and modernize its infrastructure while ensuring sustainable development.