Park City eyes next phase of sustainability work, with 2034 Olympics in focus

PARK CITY, Utah — Park City is exploring ways to use thermal energy to warm and cool buildings, expand rooftop solar, and reduce construction-related emissions as it looks toward the next phase of its sustainability efforts.

City staff in the sustainability department outlined ideas for future projects and goals in a sustainability report presented to the Park City Council on Thursday. The report identifies ongoing projects and longer-term opportunities, with an emphasis on improving the community’s resilience, reducing energy costs, and preparing for future growth.

One project under consideration is part of an exploration of thermal energy networks, which can distribute heating and cooling among multiple buildings.

For the Bonanza Park area, a shared network could provide heating and cooling without natural gas combustion, according to the report. Staff also identified the possibility of eventually expanding such systems throughout Park City, potentially creating a new city utility or enterprise fund.

The city is also updating its existing Zero Energy Building Standard, established in 2017 for municipal projects, to improve clarity and align with a definition of zero-emissions buildings vetted by the U.S. Department of Energy and national laboratories.

Another potential initiative would make rooftop solar installations more accessible to property owners. The report proposes a three-year program designed to streamline installations and lower costs.

Park City is also participating in Utah Renewable Communities, a statewide effort involving 16 communities that aims to offer customers access to net-100% clean electricity. Notices are currently being sent to electricity customers explaining how the program works, potential bill impacts, and how to opt out.

Staff also talked about the work the city is doing with local businesses, waste haulers, Summit County, and community partners to improve waste data collection and identify opportunities to reduce purchasing, reuse materials, and recover resources.

The 2034 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games are a major consideration in the city’s long-term sustainability planning.

Park City staff contributed to the sustainability section of Utah’s Olympic bid, including recommendations involving energy-efficient buildings, renewable electricity, electrified transportation, expanded transit and accessible trails, waste reduction, water conservation, and wildfire resilience.

The report says the next step is to ensure that sustainability considerations are incorporated into Olympic planning and that investments made for the Games provide lasting benefits.