Ski areas under pressure – Strom-Hammer: Skiing will be even more expensive this year

Those responsible in the ski areas of Styria are currently working up a sweat. The reason for this is not so much the recent heat wave, but rather thoughts of the coming winter. “It’s a very difficult situation for all of us and that’s why we look to winter with very mixed feelings. Our energy costs have almost tripled,” Präbichl boss Johann Roth admits honestly.

Modest savings potential
In any case, he lacks the imagination for major austerity measures in the energy sector, “at least insofar as it would make sense”. On the other hand, the ski areas cannot fully absorb the cost explosion and will have to pass on part of it to their guests. “Of course we will have to increase ticket prices, to an extent never seen in recent years,” Roth said.

Price increase of up to ten percent expected
Can you afford the Austrian national sport this winter? A question that naturally also concerns the cable car operators.

Experts expect a price increase of up to ten percent. “The pricing will be a tightrope walk, which is economically necessary and also reasonable for the market,” explains Karl Fussi, director of Kreischberg and in Lachtal. Due to the uncertain situation, most ski areas will not announce their prices until September.

Fewer snow cannons, narrower slopes?
“It will also be more expensive for us – but we will certainly stay under 70 euros for the day ticket,” promises Planai boss Georg Bliem. He set up an energy task force that has now drawn up a list of 43 points of potential savings.

This includes a reduction in the width of the slopes, as well as a reduction in snowmaking or a delayed start to the season. “We are also considering starting the cable car operations at 8.45am instead of 8.15am – we will now discuss all these points. We know we have a responsibility and we have to do something.” The electricity costs for the Planaibahn alone amount to three million euros per year and will of course now rise considerably.