Town of Shediac plans to be Canada's first net-zero community

News release

May 1, 2024 · Shediac, New Brunswick · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

By reducing their carbon footprint, Atlantic Canadian communities can improve efficiencies, lower costs and build a more sustainable, resilient future for residents. The governments of Canada and New Brunswick are investing to help the Town of Shediac advance its goals to increase energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Today, the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs, announced a non-repayable contribution of $158,585 through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s (ACOA) Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program to help the Town of Shediac develop a net-zero strategy and decarbonization pathways. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.

The Province of New Brunswick is also investing $74,000 in the project through the Regional Development Corporation.

With this support, the town will work with partners, consultants and stakeholders to develop scenarios and an action plan for becoming Canada’s first net-zero community by 2035. The project will position the Town of Shediac as a leader in responsible and sustainable energy use and will provide a model for other aspiring net-zero communities across the country.

Today’s announcement highlights how the Government of Canada is contributing to Atlantic Canada’s momentum by strengthening our communities, creating new opportunities, and setting the stage for a strong, sustainable future.

Quotes

“Reducing carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency is good for the economy and good for the planet – a win for all. Your federal government is helping communities like Shediac transition to smart energy solutions that will help address climate challenges, create new economic opportunities, and build a strong, resilient Atlantic Canada – now and for generations to come.”

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

“The investment announced today will enable the Town of Shediac to build on their strong track record in energy efficiency and greenhouse gas reduction. All of us can take pride in the fact that Shediac is leading the way to net-zero.”

The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs

“The province is pleased to support the Town of Shediac in their continued efforts to be energy efficient and reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Communities across the province will be able to look to the strategies and projects they develop to achieve Net Zero targets as an example and this project will contribute to overall goals to address climate change.”

The Honourable Réjean Savoie, Minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation

“The residents of Shediac are proud to be at the forefront of the sustainable and ecological energy efforts. Our community feels fortunate to be able to work with our partners ACOA, the Regional Development Corporation, the National Research Council, NB Power, Smart Grid Innovation Network, and Siemens Canada to position Shediac as a leader to build a cleaner, greener world for the benefit of future generations.”

Roger Caissie, Mayor of Shediac

Quick facts

  • In 2018, the Town of Shediac pledged to become leaders in responsible and sustainable energy use. In 2019, they started the Shediac Smart Energy Community project, which included a smart energy study, a community solar farm, and two net-zero buildings. 

  • ACOA’s Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program, helps businesses speed up their growth so they can be more productive, compete on the world stage and reach new markets.

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

Samantha Michaud
Senior Communications Officer
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
samantha.michaud@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Mary-Anne Hurley-Corbyn
Communications
Regional Development Corporation
mary-anne.hurley-corbyn@gnb.ca

Sylvain Montreuil
Clerk/Director of communications
Town of Shediac
sylvain.montreuil@shediac.ca


Stay connected

Follow ACOA on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.

Page details

Date modified: