Challenges and Solutions

• Aiming for LEED-NC Platinum certification.
• High performance, waterproof envelope to limit unwanted heat gains and losses.
• Natural wind-assisted hybrid ventilation to limit the driving power; the intake and exhaust flaps open according to wind direction.
• Use of hot and cold radiant slabs and panels.
• Abundant triple-glazed windows (RC.3) to enjoy views and natural light while limiting heat gains and losses.
• Windows with overhang and motorized blinds to limit unwanted solar gains.
• Energy recovery systems using a greywater heat recuperator on shower drains for preheating domestic water.
• A heat pump on a water loop for preheating domestic water; the energy comes from the building’s air conditioning loop.
• Eight heat pumps with geothermal wells for heating and cooling.
• One hot tank and four cold tanks to recover the cold produced at night (heating), used for cooling during the daytime.
• After more than a year of operation, the new headquarters consume 43% less energy than the recommendations of the Model National Energy Code 1997.

Awards

• ASHRAE Technology Award 2018 | New Commercial Buildings– First Place (International)
• AQME’s Énergia Awards 2017 | AQME Award