FUTURO snowmaking project in Elm: TechnoAlpin ensures greater snow reliability

With the FUTURO snowmaking project, the Elm ski lifts are setting the course for a more predictable winter season. TechnoAlpin is supplying a high-performance, comprehensive solution precisely tailored to the requirements of the ski resort in the Swiss canton of Glarus.

The demands placed on winter sports resorts are changing. Guests expect reliable slope conditions and a high-quality winter experience. For the Elm ski lifts, efficient snowmaking technology is therefore a crucial component for better planning of the winter season in the future.

FUTURO is the realization of a project whose development began more than ten years ago. Various providers were evaluated through a tendering process based on defined criteria. In addition to price, the technical report with order analysis, references, service, and experience played a crucial role. After comprehensive evaluation, TechnoAlpin was selected.

Ambitious timetable, parallel construction work

The first snow removal work began as early as March 23, 2026 – one week before the official end of the last winter season. Since then, work has been proceeding simultaneously on several construction phases: at the water intake in Sernf, on the extensive power grid, and at the four pumping stations in the valley, in Unterämpächli and Oberämpächli, as well as in Pleus.

In total, more than nine kilometers of ductile iron pipes will be laid. The four pumping stations will be equipped with a total of eleven high-pressure pumps. Following completion of the structures, the installation of the technical components and the electrical connection will take place.

The schedule is ambitious: the facility is to be completed between March and December 2026 and put into operation in time for the 2026/27 winter season. Thanks to favorable weather conditions and close coordination among all parties involved, the work is currently on schedule.

High-performance snow generators for diverse requirements

In its final configuration, the system will comprise 65 TL-series snow lances, primarily used in the lower section of the toboggan run. In addition to the existing 20 propeller-driven machines, 43 TT-series tower-mounted machines and two mobile propeller-driven machines of the TF10 Piano and TR10 models will be added.

The combination of different snowmaking systems makes it possible to cover individual sections of the route with snow in a targeted and needs-based manner. This creates a high-performance overall solution for the specific topographical and operational requirements in Elm.

Joint solutions for a challenging project

For a project of this scale, close cooperation between the construction management, site supervisors, Elm ski lifts, and TechnoAlpin is crucial. Challenges are addressed openly and solved together.

“Despite the size of the project and the associated challenges, solutions are being developed collaboratively and with a focus on achieving the desired goals. We are particularly impressed by the thoughtful and coordinated actions between the Elm ski lifts and TechnoAlpin. Even in demanding situations, the teams involved work together constructively and seek practical solutions. We are very satisfied with the implementation so far and the collaboration,” said the client.

With FUTURO, the Elm ski lifts are making a targeted investment in greater snow reliability and more dependable winter operations planning. TechnoAlpin is supporting the project with technical expertise, many years of experience, and a clear shared goal: to create optimal conditions for future winter seasons in Elm.