#Energy Efficiency #Canada #Montreal #GBI #Royalmount project

GBI Secures Prestigious International Award for Energy Efficiency

On September 24, 2025, GBI, a renowned consulting engineering firm based in Quebec, proudly announced its achievement of winning the first prize in the Large Projects category at the prestigious FIDIC gala held in Cape Town, South Africa. This recognition underscores GBI's commitment to innovative solutions in energy efficiency, particularly through the design and implementation of a groundbreaking dual energy transfer loop system in the Royalmount commercial building, located at the heart of Montreal Island.

The Royalmount Project

The Royalmount project was not merely about constructing a commercial building; it represented a visionary approach to energy management in an urban setting. GBI's proposal involved two interconnected energy transfer loops that enable the optimization of energy sharing among the different buildings, tailored to meet the specific needs of each space. Utilizing 150 geothermal wells that extend approximately 600 feet underground, the project harnesses renewable energy sources—geothermal and hydroelectricity—to fulfill 86% of its energy requirements. This strategy is particularly impactful in densely populated urban areas where conventional energy solutions may fall short.

Serge Beaudoin, GBI's president and principal designer of the energy transfer loop, emphasized that this international award not only recognizes their capabilities in developing concrete and innovative energy solutions but also highlights the expertise embedded within Quebec engineering. He expressed pride in the team's collective achievement of all project goals while maintaining a focus on sustainability. Beaudoin also conveyed optimism about the replicability of their energy solutions in other global projects, whether for individual buildings or entire districts.

Commitment to Sustainable Infrastructure

Pierre-Samuel Beaudoin, GBI's vice president of Strategic Advisory Services, further articulated the overarching vision of the Royalmount energy project. He stated that it transcends the mere establishment of a shopping center; it champions a paradigm shift towards carbon-neutral, efficient infrastructure that prioritizes the needs of communities. This perspective aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainability across various sectors, making GBI's work highly relevant in today's context.

In addition to the recognition received at the FIDIC gala, GBI was also honored at the Quebec Consulting Engineering Awards Gala held on September 22, 2025, where the firm won an Award of Excellence in the Building – Structure category. This accolade was awarded to GBI for its work on the Awacak Okiskinohamatowikamikowaw School project, further affirming the firm’s commitment to outstanding and diverse project developments.

About GBI

GBI, a multidisciplinary consulting engineering firm, is dedicated to supporting both public and private clients in the realization of sustainable and innovative projects. Each engagement represents an opportunity to cultivate robust partnerships rooted in trust, collaboration, and technical excellence. For more information about GBI and its initiatives, visit www.gbi.ca.

In conclusion, GBI's success at the FIDIC gala not only showcases its innovative solutions for energy efficiency but also serves as a beacon for future projects aimed at fostering sustainable infrastructure worldwide.