Optimist Hill Community Project

Wednesday, August 14, 2019

Optimist Hill Community Project

In Winter 2018, miEnergy had the pleasure of sponsoring Phase 1 of the Optimist Hill campaign right here in Saskatoon. The campaign successfully brought to life the city’s first and only ski & snowboard hill.

The campaign was 100% funded by the community, and miEnergy was proud to lend a helping hand.

The multi-space recreational area is located inside of Diefenbaker Park, in the south end of the city. A 13-panel roof-mounted solar array (3.5 kW) was donated in its entirety by our team – including all the costs of labour.

“We did it because it aligns with a lot of our values. We felt a strong need to support a community-driven project like this, it made a lot of sense for us to donate our expertise, time, materials and equipment. We wanted to give them the benefit of solar energy so they can keep operating costs low.” said David Anderson, EVP of Solar & Business Development for miEnergy.

Phase 2 of the project will begin construction in winter 2019-20 and will see a chalet building being built. This will allow the park to accommodate more riders, guests and families.

The campaign’s raised nearly $3 million in funding thanks to the efforts of local businesses, residents and even Canadian Olympic medalist Mark McMorris.

MiEnergy would like to thank the Optimist Hill organizers and the entire community that came together to make this project happen. If you would like to pursue a similar community-based solar initiative, please feel free to reach out.