How will the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics be powered?

The 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics plan to use virtually all electricity from certified renewable sources, supplied by Enel.

What are 'guarantee of origin' certificates used for the Olympics?

'Guarantee of origin' certificates are a European mechanism that proves the electricity consumed comes from certified renewable sources, supporting the Games' green energy pledge.

What are the main challenges for the sustainability of the Winter Olympics?

Besides venue power, a significant sustainability challenge for the Olympics is reducing emissions from spectator travel and accommodations, which form the largest part of the carbon footprint.

Home / Environment / Milan Cortina 2026: Clean Energy Promises Under Scrutiny

Milan Cortina 2026: Clean Energy Promises Under Scrutiny

20 Feb

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Summary

Organizers pledged virtually all electricity for the 2026 Games will be clean.
Italy's largest electricity company will supply certified renewable electricity.
Critics question if renewable certificates truly make Italy cleaner.

Milan Cortina 2026: Clean Energy Promises Under Scrutiny

The 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics are set to utilize nearly all renewable electricity for their venues, a move organizers believe will significantly reduce the event's carbon footprint. Italy's largest electricity provider, Enel, has committed to supplying 85 gigawatt-hours of power sourced entirely from certified renewable origins.

This green energy pledge is supported by 'guarantee of origin' (GO) certificates, a European system ensuring that electricity consumed comes from renewable sources. Enel has purchased these certificates to cover the Games' energy demand, aiming to demonstrate the viability of cleaner energy solutions for major international events.