Stemwinder Solar Lodge: Leading the Way in Net Zero Vacation Rentals
- Simply Kimberley
- Aug 8
- 3 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
A Year of Clean Energy Milestones
At Simply Kimberley, our commitment to sustainable tourism is a practice. The Stemwinder Solar Lodge, our flagship luxury vacation rental at the base of Kimberley Alpine Resort, has just completed its first full year of clean energy production. The results sure make us smile!
In late July 2024, we connected a 60-panel, 24.3 kW rooftop solar array to the BC Hydro grid. Over the following year, the system generated 33,760 kWh of clean electricity, while the Lodge drew 22,480 kWh from the grid. The result? A net export of 11,280 kWh — meaning we produced 50% more energy than we consumed.
Our solar array is a testament to the potential of renewable energy in the East Kootenay region of southeastern BC. It not only meets our needs but also allows us to contribute clean power back to the grid, creating a ripple effect that extends our commitment to sustainability far beyond our walls.
Electrification: Comfort Meets Sustainability
May 2024 marked another investment towards sustainability with the installation of a high-efficiency heat pump. This upgrade electrified the Stemwinder Solar Lodge’s heating and cooling, reducing reliance on our natural gas heating system.
With the heat pump powered by our own solar array, guests now enjoy year-round comfort with exceptionally low operational emissions. It’s a perfect example of how technology and sustainability can coexist beautifully in the tourism and hospitality space.
Offsetting More Than Our Own Footprint
The Stemwinder Solar Lodge’s surplus didn’t just cover its own needs — it also offset 50.3% of the combined annual electricity use (22,444 kWh) of our Super Condo at Kimberley Ridge.
In other words, the Stemwinder Lodge not only powered itself but also supplied the equivalent annual electricity use of one of our three-bedroom vacation rental condos.
These figures illustrate the huge potential for green energy in the hospitality sector. By proving that vacation rentals can operate efficiently without compromising guest comfort, we aim to lead the way in energy production and electrification in our industry.
Seasonal Insights
Our data shows that spring, summer, and fall are powerhouse months for solar generation, with the Lodge producing significantly more energy than it consumes. Interestingly, this “throwback to the 80s” weather we’ve had in spring and summer 2025 has meant lower energy draws for cooling — even with very strong occupancy — thanks to the efficiency of our heat pump.
While winter brings higher heating demands, shorter days, and snow cover on the panels, our combination of efficient HVAC and solar production credits with BC Hydro ensures we remain on track to continually lower our carbon emissions.
Why It Matters
The Stemwinder Solar Lodge proves that premium lodging and sustainability can go hand in hand. By generating more clean energy than we use, electrifying our systems, and offsetting the energy needs of nearby properties, we’re showing how tourism can be a force for positive change.
We want our guests to relax, kick back, and — if they slow down from the “good times with the boys” — know their stay supports renewable energy innovation. We care deeply, and we’re grateful to all our guests, both new and returning.
About Simply Kimberley
Simply Kimberley is a boutique hospitality and transportation company dedicated to exceptional guest experiences and environmental leadership. We believe mountain adventures should inspire — proving that creature comforts, outside adventures and sustainable steps can thrive together.
As we continue to innovate and improve our operational practices, we invite you to join us on this journey towards more sustainable tourism. Better yet, visit our Direct Book Site to come have a stay with us too!
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