Imperial Theatre sets the stage for energy efficiency

News release

April 22, 2024· Saint John, New Brunswick · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

By investing in green modernization projects, organizations and businesses can increase efficiencies, lower costs and build resiliency in their communities. The Government of Canada is investing to help an iconic Saint John theatre make energy efficiency improvements.

Today, Wayne Long, Member of Parliament for Saint John – Rothesay, announced $275,000 in support for the Imperial Theatre through ACOA’s Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.

The investment is helping the theatre replace an aging HVAC system and gas-powered boilers with a new energy-efficient system, as well as upgrade the building’s lighting systems with more efficient LED technology. These upgrades will reduce carbon emissions, generate cost savings for the organization and make the space more comfortable for the community.

By investing projects like this one, the Government of Canada is helping Atlantic Canadians take steps to address climate change, transition to a low-carbon economy and set the stage for a strong, sustainable future. 

Quotes

“On Earth Day, it is important to spotlight green energy projects like this one at Saint John’s iconic Imperial Theatre. This is how we build strong, resilient communities and a cleaner, greener future – one climate action step at a time. We need all hands-on deck as our region continues to lead the way in the transition to a prosperous low-carbon economy. Your federal government is here to help and is with Canadians every step of the way.”

- The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

“The City of Saint John’s Imperial Theatre is a beloved attraction for citizens and visitors from across the country.  I can’t think of a better day to highlight our government’s energy efficiency investment than on Earth Day – together we are strengthening this significant historical theatre, empowering healthier communities, and contributing to a strong economy.”

- Wayne Long, Member of Parliament for Saint John-Rothesay

"We are extremely grateful for ACOA's support in helping us make these important energy efficiency upgrades at Imperial Theatre. As a cultural venue, it is our responsibility to not only provide high-quality performances, but also to work towards a more sustainable future. This investment allows us to do just that while creating a more comfortable space for our patrons.”

- Angela Campbell, Executive Director

Quick facts

  • The Imperial Theatre in Saint John, New Brunswick, is a historic performing arts venue. The theatre’s mandate is to provide a platform for diverse and high-quality artistic performances from various regions and cultures of Canada and the world.

  • Founded in 1990, Earth Day Canada is a charitable organization that inspires and supports citizens and organizations to take action for the planet across the country.

  • This year’s Earth Day theme is focused on a National Leg Day Challenge.

  • ACOA’s contribution is through the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program, which supports projects that promote sustainable community economic development, enhance business development and growth, and facilitate innovation.

Associated links

Contacts

Connor Burton
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Connor.Burton@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Ann Kenney
Senior Communications Officer
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Ann.kenney@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Bethany Stout
Assistant Executive Director
Imperial Theatre Inc.
bethany@imperialtheatre.ca

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