Key Deficiencies:
o Does not cast light long distances as a result of Dark Sky compliance design. o May require lighting from two sides of wider slopes. o Fewer manufacturers and vendors. o Unfamiliar technology or associated with being old and obsolete. o May be considered more expensive compared with generic LED floods. Case Studies: Ski areas like Steamboat Springs and Mt. Peter report >85% energy savings and improved visibility with Snow-Bright™ MIL fixtures. Designers and mountain managers should assess various sustainable options, selecting technologies that align with slope-specific needs and sustainability goals.
• Before-and-after comparison of Holiday Mountain, New York with HPS (right) vs. Snow-Bright™ (left), showing improved uniformity and clarity. Originally, orange monochromatic color makes snow appear flat with less contrast. This also interferes with color rendition. Although lower color temperatures may be recommended for general public lighting like streets, it
is not appropriate for athletic applications that include snow sports venues, playing fields, golf driving ranges, tennis/pickle ball courts, outdoor basketball courts, and more.
By integrating these guidelines and technologies, ski areas can achieve sustainable slope lighting that ensures safety, enhances performance, and minimizes environmental impact. Consult lighting professionals experienced in sustainable design to tailor solutions to specific slopes. Make sure any lighting consultant is fully familiar with MIL. Environmental Compliance and Dark Sky Standards Light pollution, a critical environmental concern since the inception of the dark-sky movement in the 1950s , significantly impacts ecosystems, human health, and the visibility of stars in the sky. For “ski areas,” achieving Dark Sky compliance is increasingly vital due to stringent regulations aimed at preserving natural nighttime environments. These regulations, driven by organizations like the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), focus on minimizing glare, light trespass, and skyglow to protect wildlife, reduce energy waste, and maintain community aesthetics. Ski slope lighting, historically reliant on high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps like metal halide (MH) and high-pressure sodium (HPS), often fails to
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