As one of the first resorts in Canada to run entirely on green energy, Norquay is raising the standard for sustainability and proving that a world-class mountain experience can also be environmentally responsible.

After more than thirty five years on the mountain, John Thornton, Norquay’s Manager of Planning and Environmental Programming, has developed a profound connection to this place.

“Banff is our home, and we care deeply for the mountain, the park, and the community,” says Thornton. “That commitment has guided us for nearly a century and continues to shape everything we do today. That means always looking forward, innovating, and improving how we do things, while protecting this special place.”

Environmental leadership is key.

Thanks to a partnership with Bullfrog Power, all the electricity used to operate Norquay’s lifts, lodges, and snowmaking comes from renewable Canadian sources like wind and low-impact hydropower. Since 2015, Norquay has cut over 1,500 tonnes of CO₂e, equivalent to more than 128 million smartphone charges. Bullfrog also powers the Banff Train Station and all of Norquay’s staff housing.

“We’re proud to have Mount Norquay in our bullfrog-powered community,” said Suha Jethalal, President of Bullfrog Power. “By choosing green electricity, they’re helping to reduce dependence on polluting forms of energy and transition energy systems to renewable sources.”

Environmental practices we’ve embraced:

• A greener way to explore the mountain: As part of the Norquay 100 Vision, the proposed gondola is designed with energy-efficient systems and a minimal footprint. It gives guests a low-impact way to explore the mountain while showing that world-class experiences can align with responsible development.
• Cleaner energy for a healthier environment: Upgrading the Cascade Chairlift reduced electricity use and is expected to cut more than 900 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions over its lifetime. That’s equivalent to taking about 1000 cars off the road for a year.
• Energy savings and lower emissions: By replacing almost all lighting with LEDs and introducing smart lighting systems, Norquay has significantly reduced energy use. These upgrades have minimized the resort’s overall environmental footprint.
• Sustainable access and fewer cars: With a new gondola and expanded shuttle service from the Banff Train Station, guests would have the opportunity to arrive entirely by mass transit. This would reduce traffic in and around Banff and would significantly ease pressure on the Cascade Wildlife Corridor.
• Wildfire mitigation for safety and preservation: Since 2013, Norquay has been reducing forest fuel and following FireSmart practices across its operations. These efforts help keep Banff safe by lowering wildfire risks and protecting both the resort and surrounding community.
• Wildlife protection and a thriving ecosystem: By carefully planning trails, monitoring wildlife activity, and using strategies that reduce human-wildlife conflicts, Norquay is ensuring outdoor recreation remains compatible with the park’s natural ecosystems. These efforts support a healthier environment for both people and wildlife.

“We want to protect this place for ourselves and for the guests who come to experience it, whether they’re visiting from Calgary or from across the globe,” says Thornton. “Our environmental practices guide every part of our operations, and we are continually strengthening our efforts to ensure the long-term health of this mountain and park.”

Norquay’s story is woven into the history of Banff. Protecting the park means improving environmental outcomes while safeguarding everyone and everything that lives or visits here. That’s the responsibility and the privilege of being Banff’s ski hill.