The FIS Ski Flying World Championships 2024 in Bad Mitterndorf were a complete success—not only for Austria’s “eagles” but also for local wood energy. Heating technology specialist and Austrian Ski Federation ÖSV sponsor Hargassner provided a particularly sustainable winter experience, pioneering eco-friendly heating at a major international event.

Mega-events are subject to numerous regulations and in winter times can require extra safety guarantees. Switching to sustainable heating for all event tents and the ski jumping village during the FIS Ski Flying World Championships 2024 was not an easy task.

Challenge mastered

For example, snow cannot be accumulated on the main tent. It was therefore critical that the temperature at the tent roof reached a minimum of 14°C, to allow the snow to melt. The ambient temperature in the tents had to be at least 20°C. The organizers’ main goals were to minimize CO2 emissions and reduce the heating costs, as well as to ensure supply security and short fuel delivery routes. Furthermore, maximum reliability of the technology and 24-hour monitoring by Hargassner was demanded. The biomass pioneer and regional partners mastered this challenge excellently. A 24-hour remote control by “Biowärme Bad Mitterndorf” ensured comfortable heat throughout the entire tent area.

11 mobile heating containers

The wood heating system consisted of eleven mobile heating containers with pellet and wood chip boilers, ranging from 120 to 220 kW, and a storage container. They had a combined output of more than 2.14 MW. On the main event days, all containers were running optimally at 100% capacity. A boiler was available for backup and peak load coverage. The system had minimal energy losses. The warm-air-blower delivered the heated air directly into the tents. In addition, heat recovery reduced heating costs by 30% by reusing previously heated air.

Wood fuels from the region

The fuel supply and logistics were well-organized, and above all, regionally. All containers were designed for rapid filling with wood chips and pellets. The wood chips were produced by Biowärme Bad Mitterndorf. CEO Anton Hargassner was delighted not only to receive significant attention for wood energy, but also to celebrate the world championship title with Stefan Kraft.