BPA supports deep-energy retrofit of Concordia campus buildings

Photo courtesy Johnson Controls.

Consulting engineering firm Bouthillette Parizeau et Associés (BPA) will provide mechanical, electrical and structural services for a deep-energy retrofit of roughly 80 buildings across Concordia University’s two campuses in Montreal.

As part of the university’s PLAN/NET ZERØ initiative, the retrofitting process will begin with improvements to lighting and heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems for the Guy-De Maisonneuve Building. Originally completed in 1966, the 11-storey concrete and glass building houses administrative offices, classrooms and studios for Concordia’s dance, music and theatre departments. In 2011, it was renovated with the addition of an energy-efficient curtain wall.

Through research, creation and testing of new technologies and methods, the initial project goals are to reduce the building’s energy consumption by up to 50% and qualify for Well, LEED Gold and Zero Carbon Building (ZCB) sustainability certification. Johnson Controls will manage a two-year design and construction period and 10-year operations and maintenance (O&M) phase.

The hope is for the site to serve as a ‘blueprint’ for Concordia’s other buildings and, in alignment with its Next-Generation Cities Institute, inspire broader adoption of sustainable urban infrastructure to further reduce overall emissions.