Johnson Controls and Concordia University Launch Sustainable Retrofit

On September 22, 2025, Johnson Controls and Concordia University announced a significant partnership to retrofit the Guy-De Maisonneuve Building at the university’s Montréal campus. This initiative is a cornerstone of Concordia’s ambitious PLAN/NET ZERØ project, aimed at transforming the campus into a model of sustainability and energy efficiency.

The 11-story Guy-De Maisonneuve Building, which has stood for 59 years, will be the first of nearly 80 buildings on Concordia’s two campuses to undergo upgrades. This effort underscores the university’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions while enhancing energy efficiency through innovative technologies.

Collaborative Efforts for Sustainable Innovation

Michael Di Grappa, Vice-President of Services and Sustainability at Concordia University, expressed pride in the collaboration, stating, “Concordia University is proud to collaborate with Johnson Controls on this flagship initiative, which reflects our commitment to shaping the next generation of resilient, intelligent, and carbon-neutral campuses and cities.” He noted that this partnership marks a major milestone in their PLAN/NET ZERØ journey and highlights Concordia’s leadership in sustainable innovation.

As part of the agreement, Johnson Controls aims to reduce the university’s energy consumption by up to 50% through an outcome-based contract that includes a 10-year performance and service guarantee. The projected cost savings are expected to positively impact the university’s financial sustainability.

The upgrades will incorporate various advanced solutions, such as an air-sourced heat pump, heat recovery systems, and occupancy controls. These enhancements will help Concordia achieve multiple prestigious certifications, including LEED Existing Buildings, WELL CertifiedTM, and the Canada Green Building Council Zero-Carbon Building StandardsTM, with recertifications planned for the next decade.

Impact on Urban Decarbonization and Education

Dr. Russell Garcia, Director of Higher Education for North America at Johnson Controls, emphasized the initiative’s alignment with Québec’s goals to reduce carbon emissions and cut energy costs. He stated, “We are eager to begin this journey together to deliver lasting impact.”

Beyond mere renovation, this project will foster co-innovation and applied research. It will facilitate collaboration among Concordia students, researchers, and industry partners, particularly through the Next-Generation Cities Institute and the Johnson Controls OpenBlue smart building platform team. A new living lab at the university will serve as a testing ground for emerging technologies in real-world conditions.

Through the PLAN/NET ZERØ initiative, this living lab will also contribute to green economic development in Montréal and Québec, preparing future leaders for the energy transition. Hassaan Khan, Managing Director of Johnson Controls Canada, noted the crucial role universities play in urban decarbonization, stating, “They pave the way for innovation on all fronts providing economical value and help prepare the next generation of decision-makers for a decarbonized future.”

The Guy-De Maisonneuve Building retrofit will serve as a blueprint for sustainable urban infrastructure, aligning with the broader goals of the Next-Generation Cities Institute at Concordia University. It aims to integrate with the energy grid, contributing to grid stability and long-term emissions reduction.

This partnership marks a pivotal step forward in the journey toward a more sustainable future for educational institutions and urban environments alike.