The LAAX hotel in Switzerland is doing something new – they are now a energy producer rather than a consumer, having implemented a 7-point plan to achieve these goals.
By 2030 they aim to be a completely carbon neutral resort, using 100% renewable energy. The entire electricity supply has already been covered by hydropower since 2008, but the vision goes further with the help of the Greenstyle sustainability concept which was implemented in 2010. The resort is to become the first self-sufficient alpine destination to cover its energy needs with climate friendly, local sources.
Since 2010, the entire electricity supply has been covered by 100% with renewable energy. Local, durable materials are used in the construction of the buildings themselves, and the buildings are heated predominantly via renewable bio-fuel in the winter season. Solar power is also key to rocksresort’s energy transition, with rooms upgraded to photovoltaic systems in 2024.
Central to these plans is the rocksresort, which is regularly named the “World’s best green ski hotel” and is also the epicentre of LAAX’s social scene. The hotel comprises of 206 apartments located right next to the LAAX gondola station, offering easy access to the mountains (perfect for hiking, mountain biking, or snowsports), with access to six bars, eight restaurants, and nine stores in the immediate vicinity.
The hotel also uses e-vehicles for deliveries and guest transport, as well as a car share model for guests with 30 charging stations below the rocksresort, and e-bikes for guests.
As well as its prime location, the hotel offers an outdoor skate park in the summer season, with an urban surfwave, snakerun, and mini ramp, and local flora planted to create a wild bee paradise, home to non-stinging bees.
So, when you are next looking as a skiing holiday, this could be the place to minimise the environmental impact of your trip.