Cenovus Energy Hub Officially Opens In Lloydminster

Officials performing the ribbon cutting for the Grand Opening. Photo Sonya Lee

Hundreds of residents, officials, and community partners gathered on Wednesday, October 1, to celebrate the grand opening of the Cenovus Energy Hub, a landmark $101.3 million project that now stands as Lloydminster’s newest events centre. The modern facility, which replaces the 58-year-old Centennial Civic Centre, was unveiled with a ceremony that included an Elder’s blessing, ribbon cutting, and remarks from government representatives, city officials, and sponsors.

The state-of-the-art building features a 2,500-seat event arena that expands to 4,500 for concerts, a 500-seat community arena, and an outdoor ice surface that doubles as a basketball court in the summer. It will be home to the Lloydminster Bobcats, Bandits, Lakeland College Rustlers, and numerous community groups. Beyond hockey and local sporting events, the venue has been designed to attract major concerts, conferences, and entertainment, with officials projecting it will welcome an estimated 170,000 visitors annually.

For many, the opening of the facility symbolized not just the completion of a 25-month construction project but also the beginning of a new chapter in Lloydminster’s growth. “The new Cenovus Energy Hub is a great example of what happens when communities dream big and governments invest in modern and sustainable infrastructure,” said the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada. “The federal government is proud to support this project, which will bring people together for major concerts, sporting events, and conferences, while strengthening Lloydminster’s social and economic fabric for generations to come.”

The Government of Saskatchewan also emphasized the significance of the investment. “The Government of Saskatchewan celebrates with Lloydminster residents at the grand opening of Cenovus Energy Hub,” said Colleen Young, Minister of Energy and Resources. “Infrastructure is vital for growing and strengthening communities and our province. This new facility is a key part of future investment in business, retail growth and our residents. I look forward to hearing about the development programs to be delivered here at the Hub, engaging our youth now and in the future.”

Mayor Gerald Aalbers expressed pride in the milestone for the city. “Today marks an important milestone for Lloydminster. Not only will Cenovus Energy Hub serve as a place for sport, entertainment, and community gatherings, it will also attract more visitors to our city, generate new tourism opportunities, and create lasting benefits for local businesses. The excitement we are witnessing at today’s celebration shows the lasting impact this facility will have on our community,” said Aalbers.

City officials praised the teamwork behind the project. Tracy Simpson, Executive Manager of Community Development Services, reflected on the years of planning and collaboration that led to the opening. “The opening of Cenovus Energy Hub reflects the dedication and collaboration of countless individuals, user groups, and community partners. Their input helped shape the vision and design of this facility, ensuring it meets the needs of those who will use it most. This project has been years in the making. The community should be proud of the collective commitment that has resulted in a space that will support and strengthen Lloydminster for years to come.”

Cenovus Energy secured naming rights with a $5 million, 15-year commitment, a gesture that company leaders described as part of their long-term support for the region. “Cenovus Energy Hub is a vital investment in the region’s future – fueling growth, opportunity and community pride,” said John Soini, Executive Vice-President, Upstream – Thermal & Atlantic Offshore at Cenovus Energy. “Cenovus’s commitment to supporting local success runs deep, like our commitment to contributing to the local economy and being a part of the region’s future. We’re excited to see the Cenovus Energy Hub come to life, a space where people and possibilities come together.”

The project was funded through a combination of federal and provincial grants, City contributions, regional support, corporate sponsorships, and community fundraising. The Government of Canada contributed more than $16.4 million, the Government of Saskatchewan provided $16.6 million, and the City of Lloydminster committed $52.1 million to secure the project. Cenovus Energy’s naming rights contribution was complemented by $6.35 million raised through fundraising, including a $90,000 donation from the U13 Female Blazers, who won the 2022 Chevrolet Good Deeds Cup and directed a large portion of their prize toward making the facility more inclusive.

The Cenovus Energy Hub is also the cornerstone of a larger entertainment district envisioned for Lloydminster. Future plans include retail units, a hotel, slo-pitch diamonds, a powered campground, a pavilion, and walking trails, with development timelines to be determined.

Following the formal opening, the community was invited to take part in an evening celebration featuring public skating, skills competitions, facility tours, and a free barbecue. With music, laughter, and families filling the new space, the event captured what many speakers had emphasized throughout the day: that the Cenovus Energy Hub is more than an arena—it is a place for connection, celebration, and a bold vision of the region’s future.