Efforts to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions at the AV textile mill in Atholville are receiving a notable boost, thanks to a $254,600 funding commitment from the provincial government. The investment aims to modernize the mill’s operations and further its environmental sustainability.
Environment Minister Gilles Lepage, who also serves as the MLA for the area, made the funding announcement at the mill. Highlighting the importance of the facility, Lepage stated, "This mill has long been a cornerstone of this region and has been the key to economic development. This investment by the province will ensure the mill continues to work on its reduction of emissions, with another reduction of 3.4 percent anticipated this year. When industry implements robust measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, it de-carbonizes our economy and makes our province more resilient."
Funding for Sustainability
The funding is drawn from the province’s Output-Based Pricing System Industry Fund, which incentivizes businesses to lower their greenhouse gas emissions. Companies emitting over 50,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide are required to participate in the system. Businesses meeting reduction targets gain access to the fund, while those that do not comply must pay into it.
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Planned Upgrades to the Facility
According to mill manager Ashley Irvine, the funding will support several key upgrades, including the installation of a new energy-efficient condenser to reduce thermal losses, improvements to the insulation on piping to minimize heat loss, and the addition of tools designed to monitor energy use and performance. The mill will also introduce updated control systems to streamline its operations and cut down on energy waste.
"This is a shared commitment to a sustainable future for not only us but for our province", said Irvine. "We focus equally on the product we produce and in reducing our environmental footprint, something our team has always concentrated on."
The upgrades will be carried out by the mill’s employees, with contractors brought in as needed for specialized tasks.
A Longstanding Community Anchor
The AV textile mill has been a significant presence in Atholville for over a century. Originally a lumber mill in the 1920s, it transitioned to producing dissolving pulp for textiles in the late 1990s. Today, it employs 270 people, making it the second-largest employer in the region after the Campbellton Regional Hospital.
To maintain and improve its operations, the mill undergoes upgrades and maintenance during scheduled shutdowns twice a year. By investing in energy-efficient technologies, the mill is reinforcing its role as a leader in regional economic development and environmental responsibility.
With the planned upgrades, the mill is set to achieve another milestone in reducing its emissions footprint, supporting both its long-term sustainability and that of the province.
