Across the country, Canadians are feeling the impacts of climate change. By investing in initiatives that lower greenhouse gas emissions, increase energy efficiency and support green infrastructure, we accelerate progress towards net zero by 2050 and help build strong, resilient, and sustainable communities in every region of the country.

On October 4, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, and Geoff Stewart, President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), announced an investment of $12.6 million through the Green Municipal Fund (GMF) to construct a new fire hall in the Town of Canmore, Alberta.

The new fire hall will replace the existing facility and will be designed to achieve net-zero emissions through energy-saving measures, including the installation of solar panels. These panels are projected to generate up to 185,000 kilowatt-hours per year once fully operational. The building will also be constructed from locally sourced wood and other highly recycled materials, reducing its environmental footprint. This project is a prime example of our efforts to accelerate progress towards net zero by 2050 and build strong, resilient, and sustainable communities across the country.

The new fire hall, a direct result of the government's investment, is expected to bring about a host of benefits for the Town of Canmore. Apart from significantly reducing costs, the new facility is designed to improve first response time and serve as an emergency public shelter during critical events like forest fires. This strategic allocation of funds not only enhances the town's emergency preparedness but also underscores the government's commitment to building strong, resilient, and sustainable communities.

About the FCM's Green Municipal Fund
FCM's Green Municipal Fund (GMF) is a globally unique organization providing funding and education to municipalities to help them both reach net-zero and build resilient communities, while also delivering economic and social benefits such as jobs, housing and infrastructure. Since inception in 2000, it has helped reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2.87 million tonnes, funded nearly 13,000 person-years of employment, enabled nearly 30,000 sustainable affordable housing units, and contributed $1.2 billion to the national GDP via the more than 2,100 approved projects. GMF manages approximately $2.4 billion in programs funded by the Government of Canada.

Quotes

"Energy efficiency means cost savings for Canadians. At a time when we are facing challenges with affordability and climate change, this partnership with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities meets Canadians where they are at and delivers new approaches to energy efficient construction that make it more affordable and greener than ever thanks to reduced energy use and clean electricity generation. Projects like the new Canmore Net-Zero Firehall help deliver on the commitments announced recently in Canada's first-ever Green Buildings Strategy, which is a plan to save Canadians money, create jobs and seize the economic opportunities of a sustainable future"
The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources

"Investing in green infrastructure, like this net-zero fire hall, reduces long-term costs and builds a safer and more resilient future for Albertans. The partnership of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and the Government of Canada through the Green Municipal Fund is helping communities like Canmore transition to a healthy, net-zero emissions future. With smart investments and active collaboration, our communities are better prepared for the current climate change crisis and for climate changes to come."
The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change

"Albertans understand the push to lower emissions, combat climate change and build future-proof communities across our province. So does our government. That's why, today, we're investing $12.6 million in Canmore to build a new fire hall. This will reduce costs, cut emissions, improve response times, and add another trusted public shelter to the town's repertoire."
The Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, and MP for Edmonton Centre, Alberta

"Alberta has experienced some of the most destructive wildfires in the country's recent history. It's crucial to stand behind the courageous individuals who battle to protect our homes and communities. The Green Municipal Fund is committed to driving change through various funding options that bolster local projects, such as the one unveiled today in Canmore. With funding from GMF, upgrades to Canmore's new fire station will lower municipal costs while also curbing greenhouse gas emissions through energy-efficient features like solar panels. It will also provide shelter to the community during emergencies. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on our communities and the environment."
Geoff Stewart, FCM President

Associated links
Federation of Canadian Municipalities
Green Municipal Fund
2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Clean Air, Strong Economy