Tomorrow’s Legends, a non-profit organization based in Sydney, Nova Scotia, will convert a former hockey arena into a solar-powered, multi-sport facility through a $2.1-million federal  investment.

The Centennial Arena will be retrofitted with rooftop solar panels and a new exterior, creating a sustainable, energy-efficient, net-zero carbon facility. These improvements are expected to lower the facility’s fuel consumption by an estimated 104 per cent and greenhouse gas emissions by 620 tonnes.

The upgraded facility for community members and athletes in Cape Breton will include indoor playing surfaces for basketball, volleyball, pickleball and other indoor activities, as well as a community meeting space, and cultural and hall of fame exhibits.

Funding is coming from Canada’s Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program.

“The federal government’s contribution will have a monumental impact on the lives of so many kids and families in Cape Breton,” said Bill Kachafanas, founder of Tomorrow’s Legends. “Our sports organizations will now be able to deliver consistent and quality programming and the community at large will be able to visit our new modernized facility to enjoy some new and exciting activities.”

Photo by Markus Spiske