Energy Efficiency News
Rhineland’s Gretna getting upgraded for energy efficiency, accessibility and safety

April 26, 2023 – Gretna Arena (Rhineland, Man.) will be undergoing some big renovations to improve its energy efficiency, accessibility and safety, thanks in large part to funding from the federal government’s Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program.

“This grant allows the Local Urban District of Gretna to rehabilitate the Gretna Arena facility, in order to continue to meet the needs of both current and future residents of the community,” said Don Wiebe, Reeve, Municipality of Rhineland. “The project will improve the energy efficiency, required safety upgrades, and create a more accessible space.”

Gretna will see its roof and wall insulation improved, all exterior doors and windows will be replaced, and the ventilation will be upgraded to reduce the facility’s energy consumption and heating costs. Outdated plumbing fixtures will be replaced with low-flow fixtures.

Once complete, these enhancements are expected to reduce Gretna’s energy consumption by an estimated 30.7%, and GHG emissions by 0.17 tonnes annually.

In addition, the facility will be made more accessible to those with disabilities, and overall building safety will be enhanced through the installation of non-slip flooring in the viewing area and washrooms, and upgrades to the fire safety and exiting system.

The GICB program is contributing $798,000 to the project, and the Municipality of Rhineland is contributing $435,500.

The five-year, $1.5-billion Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program supports green and accessible retrofits, repairs or upgrades of existing public community buildings, and the construction of new publicly accessible community buildings that serve high-needs, underserved communities across Canada.

The application period for the GICB Program is closed.