Confederation Centre of the Arts

The Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown, PEI, is undergoing a deep retrofit and expansion to modernize its iconic 1960s structure while dramatically reducing carbon emissions. The 5,000 m² renewal enhances both performance and visitor experience, integrating envelope upgrades, mechanical system improvements, and new high-performing additions—all while respecting the Centre’s architectural legacy and cultural significance.

Targeting the Canada Green Building Council’s Zero Carbon Building (ZCB) certification, the revitalization sets a precedent for sustainable heritage retrofits in Canada’s Atlantic region.

reLoad served as the project’s energy modeling and whole-building life cycle assessment (wbLCA) specialists, verifying that the design approach was based on performance considerations and designed to meet stringent net-zero carbon targets. reLoad further managed the registration and certification process with CAGBC to achieve Zero Carbon Building -Design certification (pending), navigating the complexity between existing building upgrade and new construction. Our team developed a comprehensive carbon baseline, conducted iterative modeling to balance heritage preservation with performance optimization, and guided the design team in selecting efficient HVAC systems, envelope enhancements, and low-carbon materials.

Through this integrated approach, the project is expected to achieve Zero Carbon Building-Design certification while significantly cutting embodied carbon and energy costs, ensuring the Centre’s continued role as a national gathering place—now aligned with Canada’s low-carbon future.