A first for Québec: Espace Montmorency becomes the biggest ZCB-Performance certified project
Large-scale decarbonization in Laval
Laval, November 2, 2026
MONTONI, the Fonds immobilier de solidarité FTQ and Montez Corporation are proud to announce that Espace Montmorency has been awarded Zero-Carbon Building (ZCB)–Performance certification by the Canada Green Building Council. This distinction makes Espace Montmorency the largest ZCB–Performance certified project in Québec and the seventh-largest in the country. Covering 1.3 million ft2 in area and comprising more than 700 residential units, an office tower, shops and a hotel with over 180 rooms, all within the same living environment, the project shows that it is possible to decarbonize a very large-scale development and sets the standard for future urban developments.
"We have a duty as an industry to rethink the way we build our cities, in order to leave behind a sustainable legacy. This calls for a long-term vision, so that we can design resilient buildings and neighbourhoods that will prove timeless and remain relevant for future generations. Montmorency is proof that this ambition can become a reality."
- Dario Montoni, President, MONTONI
Energy loop reducing GHG emissions by 91%
By creatively incorporating a fifth-generation energy loop into the complex, the developers have successfully reduced its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 91% and its energy costs by more than 50% compared with a conventional approach. The loop enables the various buildings in the neighbourhood to share energy. Unlike a conventional approach, where each building independently manages its own energy requirements, the heat generated by certain uses can be recovered and redistributed where needed, in real time.
For example, the energy recovered from commercial premises that require air conditioning can be used to heat dwellings or office spaces. This approach enables the neighbourhood to function as a genuine energy ecosystem, where energy is harnessed rather than lost.
Powered by a state-of-the-art thermal plant that combines heat pumps, an electric boiler and high-efficiency equipment, this infrastructure illustrates how an Integrated energy solution can generate significant environmental and economic benefits across an entire neighbourhood.
"This certification confirms that the choices made right from Espace Montmorency's design stage have transformed an ambitious vision of a zero-carbon building into tangible results. ZCB–Performance certification is particularly significant, as it is based on real operational data collected over a 12-month period."
- Patrick Côté, Director, Sustainable Development, MONTONI
975 tonnes in 2025
Despite its 1.3-million-ft2 area and the presence of thousands of occupants daily, Espace Montmorency emitted only 975 tonnes of GHGs in 2025. In accordance with the requirements for ZCB–Performance certification, these emissions were offset using carbon credits audited to the international Verified Carbon Standard (VCS), derived from forestry and hydroelectric projects.
"Indeed, with Espace Montmorency and this new distinction, we are showing that it is possible to combine large-scale real estate development with energy performance, in order to create lasting value. Our partnership demonstrates the strength of our shared commitment and enables us to generate positive economic benefits in Quebec."
- Martin Raymond, President and Chief Executive Officer, Fonds immobilier de solidarité FTQ
"Espace Montmorency is a powerful example of how shared ambition and strong partnerships can produce measurable environmental and economic results. We thank our partners, investors, tenants, employees and community members whose commitment helped create a more resilient, efficient and future-ready development that will deliver lasting value."
- Manfred Lau, President & CEO, Montez Corporation
From LEED to ZCB–Performance: a project that has received numerous accolades
Beyond its energy efficiency, Espace Montmorency incorporates a number of measures designed to reduce its environmental footprint and promote a sustainable lifestyle. The project recycles rainwater for certain non-potable uses, reduces domestic water consumption by over 40% through the use of low-flow fixtures, and supports sustainable mobility via direct access to the Montréal métro, cycling facilities, and electric-vehicle charging stations.
At a time when municipalities are seeking to reconcile urban densification, the reduction of GHG emissions, and energy resilience, Espace Montmorency illustrates how mixed-use neighbourhoods can make a tangible contribution to achieving climate targets.
This latest certification adds to an impressive list of environmental distinctions, including:
- Development: LEED Gold, Neighbourhood Development;
- Office towers: LEED Platinum, Core & Shell;
- Hotel: LEED Gold, Core & Shell;
- High-rise residential buildings: LEED Gold, New Construction;
- WiredScore Silver.
About MONTONI
A pioneer of sustainable building in Canada, MONTONI develops, builds and manages real estate projects at the leading edge of design, performance, urban planning and occupant wellness. Its fundamental purpose is to create value for its clients, the environment and the community.
To date, MONTONI has completed more than 700 projects representing over 30 million square feet of industrial, commercial, institutional and residential construction and 30 corporate campuses, with another 25 million ft2 under development—an impressive portfolio of properties across Québec.
Proudly holding the title of one of Canada's Best-Managed Companies for 25 straight years, MONTONI has committed to making ESG criteria a permanent strategic reflex. It has completed more than 7 million ft2 of LEED-certified buildings and more than 2.3 million ft2 of Zero-Carbon Building (ZCB) spaces. Construction is also nearing completion on properties totalling nearly 7 million ft2, which are aiming to meet the most stringent environmental standards. MONTONI's ambition is to build a real estate heritage that will be a source of pride for future generations.
About the Fonds immobilier de solidarité FTQ
The Fonds immobilier de solidarité FTQ drives economic growth and employment in Québec by strategically investing in profitable real estate projects in partnership with leading industry players. The Fonds immobilier backs projects in the residential, office, retail, institutional and industrial sectors and espousing a sustainable development approach. As at June 30, 2026, it had 26 projects worth $4.2 billion in development or construction; 84 properties totalling 7,418 residential rental units under management; and 4,4 million sq. ft. of industrial land for development. The Fonds immobilier is a member of the Canada Green Building Council — Québec division.
About Montez Corporation
Montez Corporation is one of Canada's leading full-service investment management firms focused on creating value through building communities. We actively manage and develop a diversified portfolio across all major property types in Canada. Montez manages a portfolio of over 100 assets for its income, urban growth, and development strategies. As dedicated fiduciaries, our ambition is to build and manage resilient real estate assets that deliver sustainable, superior risk-adjusted returns across market cycles. Currently, Montez holds an interest in a portfolio representing over 25 million ft2.
