The Province of Alberta is providing $9 million to upgrade recreation facilities with energy-efficient technology under the Climate Leadership Plan to help municipalities cut energy costs and emissions. The Recreation Energy Conservation Program provides up to $750,000 per municipality, and all municipalities in Alberta are eligible to participate.

“Whether it’s for hockey practice or swim class, nothing is more Albertan than taking a trip to the community centre. By helping facilities make energy-efficiency upgrades, municipalities will save money and reduce their emissions, and people will notice the changes when they visit with their families. This program will have a big impact in communities across Alberta,” said Shannon Phillips, Minister of Environment and Parks and Minister responsible for the Climate Change Office.

In addition to buying energy-efficient technology, municipalities can use the funding for scoping audits and engineering studies. A variety of municipally owned facilities qualify for funding, including arenas, rinks, aquatic centres, community recreation centres and multiplexes.

The Municipal Climate Change Action Centre (MCCAC) is a partnership between the Government of Alberta, the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association and the Rural Municipalities of Alberta. It is responsible for funding, technical assistance and education to municipalities to address climate change, and will administer the Recreation Energy Conservation Program.

We know municipalities want to make energy-efficient choices, which will reduce energy costs and emissions. This program allows municipalities to purchase energy-efficient products, retrofit existing facilities or plan for future energy-efficient upgrades to recreation centres. It’s a win-win for municipalities and Albertans,” said Shaye Anderson, Minister of Municipal Affairs.