Serious Solar

Redefining Net-Zero Vacation Rentals

Writer: Simply Kimberley

Published: August 2026

In our businesses (Simply Kimberley and Resort Tours and Transportation), sustainable tourism is a daily operational commitment. Located at the base of Kimberley Alpine Resort, our flagship properties— The Stemwinder Solar Lodge and The Stemwinder Chalet—prove that premium properties and clean energy innovation go hand-in-hand. With two full years of generation data now logged, here is how rooftop solar is transforming two of our mountain rentals!

Two Properties, One Clean Energy Vision

1. Stemwinder Solar Lodge (24.3 kW System | 60 Roof Panels)

• Massive Surplus Generation: Over the past year alone, the Lodge’s array pushed 18,800 kWh of surplus clean energy into the BC Hydro grid.  

• Summer Powerhouse: During sun-drenched Kootenay summers, the Lodge generates more than double the electricity it consumes, maintaining a net $0 electricity charge throughout the season.  

• Offsetting Beyond Its Walls: Surplus power generated here doesn't just power the Lodge—it offsets more than 50% of the electricity usage for our nearby Super Condo at Kimberley Ridge!

2. Stemwinder Chalet (6.3 kW System | 14 Roof Panels)

• Smart On-Site Offset: Designed for immediate, localized impact, the Chalet’s array generates clean energy consumed directly on-site during daylight hours.  

• Lowering Grid Demand: By handling daytime air conditioning, EV charging, and baseline property operations locally, the Chalet reduced its equalized monthly grid payments from $232 down to $134.  

• Exporting Surplus: Even with guest occupancy, the Chalet exports hundreds of kWh in surplus solar power to the grid during peak summer months.  

Grid Stewardship & Electrification

Generators are only half the equation—efficiency is the other. Both properties pair rooftop solar with high-efficiency heating and cooling, allowing guests to enjoy climate-controlled comfort year-round with minimal operational emissions.  

Furthermore, our participation in BC Hydro’s Peak Saver Program earned $140 in cash rewards by reducing power consumption during critical winter grid hours—showing how vacation rentals can actively support regional energy resilience.  

Experience Sustainable Luxury in Kimberley

Whether you’re booking a family reunion at the Lodge or a cozy winter getaway at the Chalet, staying with Simply Kimberley means your mountain adventures leave a lighter footprint.

Ready to book your stay? Skip third-party OTA fees and book directly at Kimberley.com!