Sochi Powers Up: Bringing Energy to Site an Olympic Feat

At least 49 major energy projects were built for the winter games.

Most of that infrastructure will be invisible, although its capacity will be on full display in the glittering spectacle of Friday's opening ceremony. (See Sochi Photos.)

The system's resilience no doubt will be scrutinized closely over the next two weeks. But one thing is certain: The energy systems built to power the Sochi Olympics are as historic as the $50 billion price tag for the games. (See related, "What You Don't Know About Sochi.")

Russia is one of the world's energy superpowers, with the largest natural gas reserves on Earth, but delivery of fuel, heat, and electricity across the nation's vast expanse is often difficult and costly. (See related, "Arctic Shipping Soars, Led by Russia and Lured by Energy.")

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