ENMAX Renews Energizing Spaces Fund for Another Three Years
March 10, 2020
ENMAX and the Federation of Calgary Communities are renewing the Energizing Spaces Fund. Under the renewed contract, ENMAX will contribute $225,000 over three years to fund appliance replacements and outdoor or rink lighting projects for Calgary community groups.
“The Energizing Spaces Fund and our partnership with ENMAX has afforded community groups across Calgary with much needed appliance and lighting upgrades,” says Leslie Evans, Executive Director, Federation of Calgary Communities. “Not only have these investments reduced greenhouse gas emissions by about 112 tonnes, they’ve also returned about $27,000 in energy cost savings to community associations – money that can be used to reinvest in programs for residents. This program is a win for the environment and for our communities.”
Established in 2015, the Energizing Spaces Fund has distributed grants to 58 community groups across Calgary. The Fund is administered by the Federation of Calgary Communities and open to all member organizations. Applications are accepted twice a year, in March and September.
“ENMAX is proud to renew our partnership with the Federation of Calgary Communities as we recognize the important role the Energizing Spaces Fund plays in supporting sustainable communities across Calgary,” says Diana Stephenson, Vice President, Public Affairs, ENMAX. “Enhancing local community centres with energy efficient appliances and rink lighting benefits the neighbourhood, reduces operating costs and supports the environment.”
Whitehorn Community Association received a $3,000 Energizing Spaces grant in 2016 to cover the cost of an energy efficient commercial refrigerator and an $8,000 grant in 2019 to upgrade their rink lighting.
“Thanks to the Energizing Spaces grant we’ve been able to establish a greater sense of community,” says Darshan Khunkhun, Board Member, Whitehorn Community Association. “The bright lights are drawing people in, letting them know the rink is there and enabling them to skate later in the evening. The area feels safer, and our volunteers say maintenance can be performed at night when its colder, resulting in better quality ice surface.”
Go HERE for more informaiton on the Energizing Spaces Fund
