Community Buildings Retrofit (CBR) initiative

Community Buildings Retrofit (CBR) initiative

The Community Buildings Retrofit (CBR) initiative supports planning studies and capital projects to help municipalities and local non-profits upgrade older community buildings, such as arenas, pools and community centres. CBR projects are designed to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and introduce cleaner energy options, while delivering impressive economic benefits, including improved energy performance, reduced operating costs, and extending buildings' operating life. 

Overview 

In 2024-25, CBR allocated approximately $32 million to support 44 studies and five capital projects across the country. Three of the five capital projects were in Prairie provinces—two in Manitoba and one in Alberta—and accounted for 50% of the funded value. 

CBR developed knowledge products and organized webinars and training to help municipal staff plan and implement energy efficiency retrofits in community buildings. Topics included project funding and implementation, embodied carbon accounting, retrofits for small communities, and making the case for community building retrofits. CBR's Advisory Service also offered in-depth expert coaching, giving officials in five municipalities across the country the knowledge and tools to plan and implement their projects.