Backgrounder: Federal government invests in community buildings across Canada

Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation

Ontario

Algonquins of Pikwakanagan Health Centre Renovations

Replace the wood siding and wood frame windows with triple-paned windows, and increasing the basement insulation. The heating will be upgraded to an energy efficient heat pump, which provides significant GHG savings. The propane unit will remain, providing back up support in the case of extreme cold temperatures. Energy saving will also come from upgrading to low flow plumbing fixtures and lighting to LEDs. Accessibility will be improved by retrofitting the bathroom and upgrading the ramp to the building to meet code. A wing of the Centre will be retrofitted to improve accessibility with wider hallways and larger door frames.

Ayr

Ontario

North Dumfries Net Zero Arena Project

The Township of North Dumfries is embarking on an exciting project to construct a new state-of-the-art ice arena. This facility aims to provide a modern, accessible, and energy-efficient space for ice sports and community events. The project includes a full-sized ice rink, seating for spectators, locker rooms, and multipurpose rooms for community use.

The goal is to create a hub for local sports teams, recreational leagues, and public skating, fostering a sense of community and promoting healthy, active lifestyles. The new arena will serve residents of all ages, from young children learning to skate to seniors participating in recreational activities. By incorporating sustainable building practices and energy-efficient technologies, we aim to minimize the environmental impact and ensure long-term operational cost savings.
This project will not only enhance the quality of life for North Dumfries residents but also attract visitors and events, boosting local economy and community spirit.

Beamsville

Ontario

The Next Chapter - Vineland Library

The Town of Lincoln will retrofit and expand the public library in Vineland. The branch, built in 1996, is showing signs of wear and aging. It is the only public space on the East side of Lincoln and is currently visited by over 38,000 each year.  Lincoln is experiencing significant planned residential growth, and the increased population will include newcomers, seniors and children at risk, who require space to meet and connect.
This project will include a 6000 sq foot addition, including new study and community spaces and a place for the local archives, a green retrofit complying with the zero-carbon building design standard v4, and will improve the accessibility of the branch to 2024 AODA (Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act) standards.

The upgraded library will provide inclusive space for residents to access library programs and services and be a model of Net Zero design and construction in the Niagara Region.

Blood 148

Alberta

Unlocking Energy Efficiency Potential for Blood Tribe Employment and Skills Training (BTEST) Building

Improve the comfort and efficiency of the facility and the success of programming by lowering energy consumption, reducing operating costs and demonstrating energy efficiency leadership.
Works include upgrading lights to LED, improving insulation and sealing of windows and doors, and building out a solar array. The expected energy efficiency improvements from these projects is 32.4%.

Bonnechere Valley

Ontario

Eganville Community Arena GHG Reduction and Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Replace refrigeration equipment, install a 272 kW solar array, upgrade to LED lighting, improve air tightness and optimize the Building Automation System (BAS) for better climate control.
These measures aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower operational costs, and ensure the arena remains a vital community space for activities and events.

Breton

Alberta

Carolyn Strand Civic Centre Energy Retrofit Improvements

Replace the outdated HVAC system with a high-efficiency heat pump and upgrade interior lighting with LED fixtures and a control panel, which will reduce energy consumption by 54.5%. An accessible ramp will also be installed to ensure all community members, including those with mobility challenges, can access the services.

Brokenhead Ojibway Nation Reserve

Manitoba

Brokenhead Ojibway Nation Community Hall

Convert the existing kitchen into a commercial-grade kitchen, install an energy efficient backup generator for emergency power, improve HVAC and audio-visual systems, and accessibility within the building based on CSA standard. Energy efficiency upgrades will feature an air source heat pump, ductwork repairs, demand-controlled ventilation, and repairing the kitchen's heat recovery ventilator (HRV), leading to a 47.1% reduction in energy consumption and carbon emissions.

Burlington

Ontario

Skyway Community Centre and Park

Build a new facility that will exceed the Ontario Building Code (OBC) and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) for accessibility requirements. This new community centre will feature a revitalized park which includes a baseball diamond, natural playground, arena, program rooms and an indoor walking track. This will be a low carbon operating facility which aligns with the City's goal of being a net carbon operation by 2040.

Caledon

Ontario

Low Carbon Electric Heating Retrofits and Building Automation System Expansion at Caledon East Community Complex

Retrofit end-of-life natural gas heaters to electric radiant heaters in two arenas and a garage bay at the Caledon East Community Complex. Expand existing building automation system (BAS), as well as optimize the remaining assets which span the remaining 95,962 ft2 of original floor space at the complex. The retrofitted heaters and expanding the BAS system will result in energy savings of 944,583 ekWh and abate 131 tonnes of CO2e from entering the atmosphere.

Cape Breton Regional Municipality

Nova Scotia

Going Green in 2023 2023

Install a new refrigeration system which will utilize significant green energy and carbon  reductions measures and put in place solar  panels as the primary energy source. This will lead to greater efficiency and significantly reduced utility rates and will also be part of a net-zero objective. Building renovations will assist with greater accessibility.

Edmonton

Alberta

Pimatisiwin Bridge Housing Renovation

The Pimatisiwin Bridge Housing Renovation Project will rehabilitate and transform a former tavern space into a comprehensive support hub featuring 44 bridge housing units, a commercial kitchen, office space, conference rooms, spiritual space, and accessible washrooms. This project will serve individuals experiencing chronic homelessness by providing 24/7 accommodations, meals, showers, and wrap-around services. Residents will receive culturally sensitive support, helping them stabilize and transition to permanent housing. The renovated space will accommodate over 100 people daily, offering holistic care, including cultural, spiritual, and healthcare services. This project directly supports Edmonton's unhoused population, particularly Indigenous individuals, and promotes long-term housing solutions.

Edmonton

Alberta

Terra Centre 146 Street Renovation

Terra Centre recently purchased a building to accommodate the expansion of our programmes. Terra Centre is instrumental in raising the standard of living for minority families in Edmonton by being the only organization solely dedicated to pregnant and parenting teen mothers.

By reducing energy consumption and operating costs, we can ensure that services remain free for teen parents and their families. The agency has implemented many strategies to achieve this goal:

- Energy Efficiency Upgrade: HRV Replacement, Built-Up Roof System Replacement, Windows, Skylight and Storefront Replacement, LED Lighting Fixture Upgrade.
The retrofit plan includes enhancing accessibility in the building to welcome more employees, clients, and members of the public, thereby expanding access to more people who require service - Accessibility Retrofits: Accessible family washrooms, Ramps (Exterior and Interior), Automatic Doors, Accessible Reception Desk.

Edmonton

Alberta

North Glenora Community League - Net Zero Retrofit

Improve the energy efficiency of the Community Leagues buildings and retrofit them to net zero. This project will eliminate the carbon emissions of the Community League, act as a demonstration for energy retrofits for residents, improve community climate resilience by providing emergency shelter from extreme weather, and increase the accessibility of the League buildings.

Edmonton

Alberta

Avonmore Community League - Hall Building - Stepped Pathway to Net Zero

Reduce annual energy consumption by 87.3% (45,880 kWh), reduce annual greenhouse gas emissions by 89.4% (10.1 tCO2e), improve climate resilience, and work towards removing accessibility barriers. This will be achieved with a building envelope retrofit, reduction of natural gas consumption, electric heating and cooling, renewable energy generation, and accessibility enhancements.

Edmonton

Alberta

Ritchie Community Hall Replacement Project

Replace the hall to align with community needs and municipal requirements. With a secured development permit, support from various organisations and access to 552 memberships and over 30 businesses, the league is shovel ready and feasible. The building currently serves as an affordable space for charities and non-profit organisations to provide affordable programs to young families and cultural groups. The new hall will also better serve houseless residents.

Edmonton

*Announced on March 21, 2025

Alberta

Crestwood Hall HVAC and Envelope Upgrades

Correct stucco cladding, windows and doors, and heating and air conditioning systems.
This will also support the long term goal of becoming NetZero in an incremental and financially responsible way. This project will cut energy use by 44%, and prepare the building for full electrification.

Edmonton

*Announced on March 21, 2025

Alberta

Edmonton's Food Bank (EFB) Solar Array Project (Main Building)

Reduce the operating costs for EFB yearly by at least $70,000 and reduce the carbon emissions (GHG) associated with the operation of EFB by 225 tCO2. Funding will also create a sustainable and prosperous community by reduced costs and reinvestment into the local economy through things like food purchases and programs.

Georgina

Ontario

Energy, Accessibility, and Climate Resiliency Retrofit of Sutton Arena

Improve the energy efficiency, accessibility, and climate resiliency of the facility by retrofitting the building envelope and equipment to reduce energy usage by over 26%, upgrading the elevator and flooring to meet accessibility standards, and implementing low impact development features in the parking lot to mitigate climate risks. The project will improve the enjoyment and usability of the space for the community by improving temperature controls and occupancy comfort, improving indoor air quality and accessibility, and building in climate resiliency.

Grand Cache

Alberta

Aseniwuche Winewack Nation of Canada (AWN) Tawow Centre Retrofit

Reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and operational costs while expanding programming for the community. Key upgrades will include optimizing heating and cooling systems, improving insulation, replacing windows and lighting with energy-efficient alternatives, and enhancing air quality.
The retrofit will benefit over 500 AWN members, including youth, elders, and families.

Hamlet of Kugaaruk

Nunavut

Wellness Centre Renovation and Expansion

Renovate and expand the Centre to better serve the rapidly growing community, with a programming based on Inuit traditions. The Hamlet will install a new kitchen and additional food storage to support the Elders lunch and soup kitchen programs that provide services for the most vulnerable. To better serve expecting mothers and early families through the Canadian Prenatal Nutrition Program, a 25 m² expansion is planned. Additionally, the project will include a solar and battery energy storage system, enabling the Centre to operate essential services in emergencies and reducing reliance on diesel-powered electricity.

High Prairie

Alberta

High Prairie Friendship Centre Retrofit

Improve the building envelope and HVAC systems, as well as implement rooftop solar. These upgrades will significantly reduce energy consumption, lower operating costs, promote climate resiliency, improve accessibility and building comfort, and ensure vital community services for years to come.

Kingston

Ontario

Isabel Turner Library Renovation

Isabel Turner Library is a 32,000 sq. ft public library constructed in 1997 and serves as a critical community hub in the west-end of Kingston. The retrofit project will involve aggressive decarbonization measures, energy efficiency upgrades, and site-wide accessibility improvements, including:

• Extensive building mechanical upgrades (i.e. new high efficiency heat pumps) 
• Full lighting replacement from fluorescent to LEDs
• Modifications to public and staff entrances to make them fully accessible 
• Washroom renovations to make them accessible and a new universal washroom 
• General accessibility improvements, including: colour contrasting floors and walls, improved circulation, elevator repairs, low reach shelving, integrated assistive devices, and wayfinding
• Building envelope improvements (water sealing).

Kingston

Ontario

Solar PV Array – Rideau Heights Community Centre

Retrofit the facility with a net-metered photovoltaic array on the roof and in the adjacent parking lot.

Kitchener

Ontario

Quad Gymnasium at RBJ Schlegel Park

The new 33,800 sq. ft. gymnasium will be Kitchener's first facility of this kind, designed to competition standards for pickleball, basketball, indoor cricket, volleyball, and badminton. Located at the intersection of Huron Road and Fischer-Hallman Road, the facility is in the rapidly growing southwestern area of Kitchener, an area that has historically lacked sufficient recreational infrastructure. Just a 10-minute drive from Highway 401 and near other arterial routes the facility will be easily accessible by many, with an expected 150,000 local and non-local visitors in the first year with numbers expected to grow. The gymnasium will operate as a Net-Zero facility, making it one of the most environmentally sustainable recreation centers in Ontario. This will be achieved through a combination of advanced geo-thermal and solar photovoltaics as well as sustainable material selection such as cross-laminated timber wall systems, which significantly reduce the building's carbon footprint.

Lac Brome, Quebec (formerly known as Knowlton)

Quebec

Lac Brome Museum Expansion - New Building

Construction a 6000 sq.ft., 2-story building to expand museum displays/public spaces and to provide access during winter to museum and public events.  The climate-controlled building will have an elevator, disabled-friendly washrooms and ground-floor exhibits.

Lindsay

Ontario

Ampere's Community STEAM Space

Ampere is undertaking a green and inclusive retrofit to create a community STEAM space in Lindsay, Ontario.

Currently, this 13,248 sq.ft. facility is largely inaccessible with poor energy efficiency. Retrofits will help create a safe, energy efficient, and inclusive multi-purpose learning and activity space. Its ambitious goals include:
- Green measures (target  65% energy savings, -90% in annual GHG emissions): Adding insulation and curtain walls, upgrading windows and exterior doors, upgrading HVAC, installing LED lighting
- Accessibility measures (exceeding the highest accessibility standards): Installing exterior/interior ramps, non-slip flooring, elevator, and accessible doors.

This project will primarily benefit underserved/high needs groups in rural Ontario, including people experiencing poverty, Indigenous peoples, people living with disabilities, newcomers, and seniors.

Little Current

Ontario

Fuel Electrification and Solar Net Metering at NEMI Municipal Library

Offset existing propane and heating oil fuel consumption through installation of cold temperature air-source heat pumps as the new primary heating source, while retaining some of the existing heating system for backup and peak heating demand during extreme cold weather. Other ventilation, HVAC control and building envelope improvements are planned to increase occupant comfort and reduce issues around shoulder season heating with existing heating systems.

London

*Announced on March 20, 2025

Ontario

Shelter from the Heat: Creating a Community Forestry Centre for Southwestern Ontario

Transform a 1940s Veterans facility into an energy-efficient, solar-powered, climate-resilient centre for community forestry programs aimed at combating climate change, particularly extreme heat, through tree planting and other nature-based solutions. The centre will offer a variety of free, publicly accessible programs, events, and services.

London

Ontario

LOSC BMO Sports Centre Green Retrofit Project

Retrofit windows and minimize energy loss, and update outdated mechanical systems and HVAC equipment to optimize performance and reduce environmental impact. The project will provide a more eco-friendly facility, benefiting the London community and its 600,000+ annual visitors by improving comfort and lowering operational costs.

Madeira Park,  Sunshine Coast Regional District, Area A

British Columbia

Pender Harbour Community Hall  Renovation & Upgrade Project

Replace the rafters and roof of the Hall with the goal of extending the life of the building and reduce GHG emissions by upgrading insulation, installing LED lighting and an ERV. The project will enable a solar panel array on the roof. The project will improve accessibility by installing automatic door opener at the main entrance which will complement the accessibility ramp donated by a local business. The project will reduce operating costs by reducing energy consumption and making the Hall more accessible for stakeholders.

Mississippi Mills

Ontario

Reducing the Carbon Footprint: Museum Retrofit

Improve energy efficiency, reduce the carbon footprint of the MVTM, and increase long-term viability of the site through investments in grid-connected solar PV, high-efficiency electric heat pumps, improved thermal performance, electrical system upgrade, and WIFI-enabled computerized energy management.

Montréal

Quebec

Project Second Chance -  Enhancing Community Inclusion, Integration and Support Services to Ex-Inmates

Expand the Maison Belfield facility by approximately 8% by removing walls between the living room, kitchen, and dining areas to create a more open and functional environment and enhance public accessibility to group meetings, social events, and rehabilitation activities.

Montréal

Quebec

The Oasis in Transformation: together for an inclusive and sustainable environment for the families of our community

Renovation of the backyard to better manage rainwater and reduce its impact on the building. To improve accessibility, plans include renovating common areas, automating one of the entrance doors, and installing a weather-protected universal access ramp. Improvements to insulation, windows, doors, the air conditioning and heating system, and lighting are also planned.

Montréal

*Announced on March 19, 2025

Quebec

Montreal North Sport Centre

Build the sports section of the arena, which includes a double gymnasium, a gymnastics area, a walking track, locker rooms, bleachers, and administrative offices for the organizations.

Municipality of Pictou

Nova Scotia

MARSA Expansions

Expand kitchen and greenroom/storage, deck, and improve energy and climate and accessibility.

Nepean

Ontario

Mamaawi Lodge: Expanding Green Spaces for an Inclusive Future

The Mamaawi Lodge Expansion project involves a substantial addition to cultural performance and education facility, addressing the growing demand for its programming. The expansion will add 457.7 m² to the existing 442 m² pavilion, creating space for an artisan marketplace, office, makerspace, classroom, storage, washrooms, and more.

Upgrades to the current pavilion will include refinishing the event space, energy-efficient lighting, new AV and stage systems, and enhancements to the building envelope such as re-cladding, new windows, doors, insulation, and barriers. A new heat pump, septic system, and hydro service upgrades will further improve sustainability.
This expansion enhances the organization's ability to offer culturally immersive and educational experiences, benefiting Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities by promoting cultural understanding and reconciliation.

Norfolk County

Ontario

Reducing CO2 Emissions: Port Rowan Community Centre Retrofit

Install a new roof with insulation, solar panel installation with battery storage, HVAC improvements, building envelope upgrades, and enhanced accessibility features.

Oka

Quebec

Renovation of Juliette Huot Place

Modernize and make this seniors' reception center more environmentally friendly. The work will include demolishing and rebuilding the entrance ramp for better accessibility, replacing doors and windows with more energy-efficient models, adding gutters and roof ventilators, and improving insulation. The project also includes decontaminating and removing a buried oil tank, installing an electric furnace, and making various repairs to the building envelope.

Ottawa

Ontario

African, Caribbean & Black Wellness Resource Centre: Breaking Barriers

Install energy-efficient windows, lighting, and HVAC systems to reduce the building's environmental impact and operational costs. Install automatic, wheelchair-accessible doors and an exterior ramp, ensuring ease of access for all members of the community, especially those with mobility impairments. The subfloors will be upgraded to smooth, safe vinyl flooring, improving traction and significantly reducing the risk of accidents.

Percé

Quebec

Renovation of the Charles Robin heritage barn (built in 1780) into the Percé community Art Centre

For 16 years, the Percéides Festival has been a major cultural player in the region, offering programming for all audiences. As a long-term tenant of the Charles Robin heritage building, Les Percéides wants to restore this venue's artistic and community vocation by restoring and redeveloping it into the Percé Art Centre, offering cutting-edge cultural, community, and educational activities year-round, aimed at all ages. The winterized building will be accessible and serve the various communities of Greater Percé and the Gaspé Peninsula so they can meet and develop social and multidisciplinary activities. The renovated building will include various accessible spaces such as a meeting room, a community kitchen for events, a community café, a screening room, artist residencies, and an exhibition hall.

Pictou County, District 10:   Coalburn, Greenwood, Kirmount, McLellans Brook, McLellans Mountain

Nova Scotia

Ivor MacDonald Deep Energy Retrofit Project

Reduce the building emissions (by over 85%) from the Ivor MacDonald Community Arena by making vast improvements to the properties envelope, mechanical, lighting, and renewable energy systems. Targeted upgrades include converting aging oil and wood boilers to an efficient closed-loop geothermal heating system, installing ductless heat pumps, adding a 75kW solar PV array, replacing fluorescent lighting with LED, upgrading controls, and increasing wall insulation. In total the project looks to reduce total on-site energy use by 87%.

Qualicum Beach

*Announced on March 22, 2025

British Columbia

Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion Project

Double the size of the current facility, connecting rural and urban residents of the Oceanside, BC area with publicly accessible, affordable aquatics programming. This improve community services while meeting the Canada Green Building Council's Zero Carbon Standard V4.The new facility includes a new pool area and modernized change rooms.

Rothesay

New Brunswick

The Rothesay Intergenerational Centre - Phase 2

The Rothesay Intergenerational Centre (RIC) - phase 2 project is to refurbish and repurpose the 50-year-old Rothesay Arena as a multiuse recreation facility serving the broad Rothesay community and the nearby town of Quispamsis (total population ±35,000).
The existing rink boards and ice plant will be removed and a new multipurpose floor installed suitable for a variety of sports, recreation and cultural activities. The existing structure and select components of the building will be retained and a new, energy-efficient building envelope and HVAC system added. The facility will be upgraded to universal design standards (barrier free). Usage will be intergenerational responding to the needs of a growing senior's population, active adults and emerging needs of newcomers. Sited adjacent one of our neighbourhoods under stress and within walking distance of a second, this facility is expected to provide wellness opportunities for youth and adults otherwise unserved or underserved.

Saint-Félix-de-Valois

Quebec

Energy renovation and remodelling of the old Presbytery

Modernization, roof repair, replacement of the heating and ventilation system, renovation of the sanitary blocks and redefinition of the storage and office spaces so that the building complies with the building code will allow the rehabilitation of the premises to accommodate community organizations, to preserve an important element of the built, religious and historical heritage of the community while improving the accessibility of the building and its ecological footprint in order to make it a truly green, inclusive and accessible community building.

Saint Theresa Point First Nation # 298

Manitoba

Saint Theresa Point First Nation Daycare Solar Project

Retrofit the St. Theresa Point First Nation Daycare building with a grid tied solar photovoltaic system. The 50.6 kW solar PV system is designed to reduce carbon emissions and overall carbon footprint. The solar system will create ~55,900 kWh or 98% of the electricity requirements, lowering operating expenses by ~$6000/year that can to go towards equipment, toys, lunches and even additional staff to meet the constant demand.

Sault Ste. Marie

Ontario

John Rhodes Community Centre Energy Retrofit and Accessibility Project

Replace the existing roof to support solar panel installation, upgrading the roof condenser and air handling units for better HVAC efficiency, converting the entire facility to LED lighting and solar panel installation. These changes aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and operating costs, aligning with Canada's climate goals. Additionally, accessible bleachers will be installed in the hockey arena to create an inclusive environment for families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.

Seine River First Nation

Ontario

Seine River Community Centre Renovations

Retrofit the 20-year old gymnasium / community centre, that includes replacing the diesel boiler with a geothermal system, adding a solar panel array and replacing windows, and improving accessibility of the building by installing a wider entryway with a concrete apron.

St. John's

Newfoundland and Labrador

Kilbride Lions Community Centre: Deep Energy Retrofit & Renewal Project

The City of St. John's is undertaking a comprehensive retrofit of the Kilbride Lions Community Centre to improve energy efficiency, accessibility, and safety. This project will focus on deep energy retrofits, including upgrades to insulation, heating systems, and lighting, key accessibility upgrades, such as the installation of a gender-neutral accessible washroom and an elevator and, critical safety upgrades, including modernizing outdated electrical systems to address long-overdue maintenance issues.

These improvements target an 80% reduction in energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, aligned with the City's climate action plans, while also promoting inclusivity and safety. The project will benefit all residents, especially vulnerable populations such as indigenous households, single-parent families, and those experiencing energy poverty in the community.

Surrey

British Columbia

North Surrey  Indigenous Learning Centre

The North Surrey Indigenous Learning Centre is a new construction project designed to support the cultural, educational, and social needs of the Kwantlen, Katzie, and Semiahmoo First Nations. The Centre will feature workshops, classrooms, and gathering spaces, fostering cultural knowledge sharing and Indigenous traditions like wood carving. Designed with a focus on sustainability and accessibility, the fully electrified building will meet Zero Carbon Building standards and feature energy-efficient systems. The Centre will also offer the broader Surrey community an opportunity to learn about and engage with First Nations culture, enhancing cultural exchange and inclusivity.

Temiskaming Shores, Timiskaming District

Ontario

Waterfront Pool & Fitness Centre Energy & GHG Retrofit

Upgrade the regional health and wellness facility, which is the only indoor aquatic and fitness facility within a 75 km radius, providing essential services to seniors, low-income families, and other vulnerable populations, and improve thermal comfort by modernizing HVAC system. This will achieve a 32% improvement in energy efficiency.

The Magdalen Islands

Quebec

Musée de la Mer des Îles-de-la-Madeleine: Geothermal upgrading and climate resilience

Improve the performance of the envelope to save energy. Subsequently, an increase in auxiliary power will be necessary to relieve the overstressed geothermal units in the friable soil of the archipelago by about 40%. The new auxiliary system will consist of overhead VRV (Variable Refrigerant Volume) units to complement the geothermal system.

Thessalon

Ontario

The Town of Thessalon Sustainability Initiative: Enhancing Energy Efficiency and Accessibility at the Thessalon Memorial Arena and Thessalon Curling Club

This transformative project aims to modernize the Thessalon Memorial Arena and Curling Club by installing an energy-efficient CO2 refrigeration plant and implementing a suite of energy conservation measures, including electric resurfacing equipment, space temperature setbacks, and ice temperature optimization. The project will reduce electrical consumption by 35.3% and lower CO2e emissions by 42.4%, supporting Canada's climate goals. Additionally, key accessibility upgrades, such as automatic door openers, improved washrooms, and ramp modifications, will ensure that the facility is inclusive for all community members. These improvements will safeguard the arena's future, ensuring it remains a vital recreational hub for Town of Thessalon, Thessalon First Nation and many other surrounding communities.

Thunder Bay

*Announced on March 19, 2025

Ontario

Science North Thunder Bay: A Net Zero Attraction and Home for Science in Northwestern Ontario

Build a net-zero science centre attraction in Thunder Bay, designed to the Canadian Green Building Council's Zero Carbon Building Standard (V4) and provide accessible community services to 67,500 people annually, including populations experiencing higher needs.

Toronto

Ontario

YMCA Bridletowne Neighbourhood Centre

This is a new mixed-use community and recreation centre, owned by the YMCA of Greater Toronto, will contain a combination of health, fitness and child programming along with leased spaces for local community social and health services. The facility will be roughly 14,000 m2 and brings together numerous local small United Way community agencies alongside large established organizations like Scarborough Health Network (SHN) to weave health and well-being into this forward-thinking model of caring for all ages at all stages of their wellness journey.

The project is targeting LEED certification, Toronto Green Standard Tier 2, and Fitwel - making it an example of healthy and climate-smart development. The current design includes ultra-efficient energy systems and low-carbon materials, and GICB funding will allow the project to achieve Zero Carbon Standard certification by eliminating fossil fuels and offsetting any residual emissions associated with the project.

Toronto

Ontario

Central YMCA energy infrastructure retrofit

Implement a variety of repairs and retrofit measures to significantly reduce energy consumption and GHG emissions, which will ultimately result in a 38% reduction in fuel consumption, 32% reduction in fuel cost, and 49% reduction in carbon emissions.

Toronto

Ontario

Oshawa YMCA energy infrastructure retrofit

This is an existing, 5,794 sqm mixed-use community and recreation centre owned by the YMCA of Greater Toronto. It brings together the local community and features a wide range of health and fitness facilities and programs, childcare, and day camps. However, as an older building, the building currently contains a number of inefficient systems and building features, resulting in higher energy consumption and GHG emissions, as well as increased fuel cost.

The project will implement a variety of repairs and retrofit measures to significantly reduce energy consumption and GHG emissions, which will ultimately result in a 40% reduction in fuel consumption, 34% reduction in fuel cost, and 60% reduction in carbon emissions. With these measures funded through the GICB program, this project is an excellent example of retrofitting existing buildings to convert them into modern, high-performance facilities.

Toronto

Ontario

Parkdale Activity-Recreation Centre (PARC) Community Hub Revitalization and Energy Saving Retrofit

Replace the windows and the roof, insulating walls and replace the 25-year-old rooftop HVAC units with a new, highly efficient centralized HVAC (VRF) system. Accessibility and fire safety systems will conform to the highest standards. The renovation will not only improve energy efficiency, accessibility, and safety but will reduce GHG emissions, make PARC more resilient to climate change and reduce the risks and costs associated with it.

Toronto

Ontario

Westend YMCA energy retrofit

Implement a variety of repairs and retrofit measures to significantly reduce energy consumption and GHG emissions, which will ultimately result in a 39% reduction in fuel consumption, 32% reduction in fuel cost, and 44% reduction in carbon emissions.

Town Of Bancroft

Ontario

The Green Ice Initiative:  Accessible and Sustainable Upgrades to the North Hastings Community Centre

Upgrade to the Thermalcare refrigeration system, which is safer and offers up to a 41% reduction in energy costs, and install a universal washroom addressing the lack of accessible facilities in the arena.

Town of Main Brook

Newfoundland and Labrador

Moving Towards a Green Future - Revitalizing Community Spaces

Retrofit an existing municipal storage and warehousing building to become a multi-purpose building that enhances community engagement and interactions, attracts guests, visitors and new families, and supports diverse and underserved local groups with a focus on mental health, aging in place, education and entertainment for youth.

Town of Olds

Alberta

Olds Men's Shed and Community Arts Hub: Activating the former Town of Olds Operations Shop

Renovate the interior of the building to ensure it is safe, accessible, and functional as a community building while improving energy efficiency, lowering carbon emissions and enhancing climate resilience. A Community Arts Hub would offer space for local artists to gather, create and share their talents through various projects and cultural events. The Hub would also be a place for community members to come together to engage in art creation, appreciate art, and participate in other cultural activities.

Town of Whitby

* Announced on March 14, 2025

Ontario

55+ - Feasibility Study / HVAC Upgrades & Interior Renovations

Upgrade the Seniors Activity Centre HVAC systems, including new air handling units, rooftop unit condensers, replacement of hot water tanks, and building automation system upgrades.

Township of Johnson

Ontario

Johnson Township Community Centre Green Efficiency Updates

Improve the ice making plant, HVAC system, bathrooms, showers, lighting, and enclosure tightness. The installation of automation solutions and replacement of equipment long past its useful life, will reduce consumption, limit water usage, and reduce product waste throughout the building. This will increase energy efficiency's by approximately 25%, reduce GHG emissions by approximately 35%, reduce costs by $45,000, and reduce water consumption by a minimum of 660,000 gallons annually.

Trenton

Ontario

Wooler Schoolhouse Project

The Wooler Schoolhouse Project will renovate the heritage 1915 Wooler Schoolhouse in Quinte West, Ontario to return it community service as a modernized, sustainable, climate change resilient, and accessible recreation facility. Renovations will include an addition to provide elevator access and a second emergency exit.
The Schoolhouse's 2.8-acre property will be developed to support outdoor recreational and cultural activities identified by the community. 

The Project is led by the non-profit Wooler and Area Community Organization that will operate the renovated Schoolhouse to provide inclusive, affordable, local access to recreational programs and spaces for community events, services missing in the area since the demolition of the Wooler Town Hall in 2012.
The revitalized Schoolhouse will become a sustainable platform for community engagement, economic development, preservation of history, and cultural events, including meeting the needs of underserved area youth and seniors.

Village of Memramcook

*Announced on March 21, 2025

New Brunswick

Memramcook Recreation Centre

Build a sustainable recreation centre in the rural linguistic minority community. This centre will be a modern and inclusive space, designed to meet the needs of vulnerable groups such as at-risk youth, newcomers, seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income families. The centre will offer affordable and accessible programming. The project aligns with Canada's net-zero carbon energy goals, aiming for net-zero energy performance.

Waterloo

Ontario

MSCC Energy and Accessibility Retrofit

Reductions Energy/GHG by electrification of (natural) gas heating systems, energy recovery, lighting, controls, and new roofing. Accessibility and inclusivity is enhanced with a new universal washroom, and automatic door operators. Community service offering is increased with a new arena dehumidifier with air conditioning.

Westport

Ontario

WTC Communication Center GHG Reduction & Energy Efficiency Upgrades

The Westport Community Arena Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Upgrades project aims to enhance the facility's energy performance and environmental impact through a series of targeted measures. These include optimizing dehumidifier controls, installing air-source heat pump water heaters, implementing night temperature setbacks, and upgrading to LED lighting with occupancy sensors. Additionally, the project will integrate a hydronic forced-air bleacher heating system using reclaimed heat, and install a solar photovoltaic system on the roof. These upgrades will reduce energy consumption by 98.6%, lower operational costs, and decrease greenhouse gas emissions by 96.1%, benefiting the entire Westport community by providing a more sustainable and cost-effective recreational facility. The project will also improve accessibility, indoor air quality and comfort for users, ensuring a healthier and more enjoyable environment for all.

Winnipeg

*Announced on March 21, 2025

Manitoba

Le Musée de Saint-Boniface Museum Energy & Envelope Upgrade

Replace windows, and mechanical systems including HVAC system with heat pumps, new ductwork, controls and energy recovery ventilators.

Winnipeg

*Announced on March 19, 2025

Manitoba

Riverview Community Centre -  Comprehensive Green Energy Retrofit: Interior & Exterior

Replace mechanical systems and interior and exterior components that have exceeded their functional lifespan. These upgrades will improve energy efficiency, reduce operating costs, and prepare the centre to serve the community in a carbon-constrained future.

Yellowknife

Northwest Territories

Endacho Healing Lodge

Build a new, energy efficient and eco-sensitive Endacho Healing Lodge that will be built as a place of harmony with the land and water. In this place, Indigenous people who have suffered trauma can heal by connecting with their culture and the land through a combination of traditional and western healing methods.  The Lodge is designed to integrate into the natural contours of the land, incorporating energy efficiency technology proven effective and sustainable in the northern environment.