Caring for people and buildings – At BAULNE, this commitment guides every decision we make. In 2026 and beyond, it’s the fusion of cutting-edge technology and human expertise that will make the biggest difference for smart building managers and operations directors across Québec.
To better understand the key trends shaping the future, we spoke with two of our senior refrigeration foremen, Chad and Éric, who work daily with clients in commercial, industrial, and institutional sectors. Their on-the-ground insights helped us identify what’s truly coming for tomorrow’s smart buildings.
AI in Smart Buildings: Powerful, but Guided by People
Artificial intelligence is now part of several layers of building operations — from machine learning to predictive maintenance, automation, and IoT. Here’s what Chad and Éric had to say about these evolving technologies.
Machine Learning and Predictive Maintenance
Machine learning is transforming HVAC system maintenance by making buildings more proactive and responsive. Algorithms analyze performance data in real time, detect anomalies, predict failures, and automate certain adjustments to maintain peak energy efficiency.
In our field experience, manufacturing leads the way in adopting these innovations. The benefits are clear: lower operating costs, increased equipment reliability, and better failure prevention.
But let’s be clear — automation doesn’t replace people.
“You’ll always need a human to fix things. Human instinct is irreplaceable.” — Chad
“The algorithm can trigger an alert, but it takes a technician’s expertise to confirm the diagnosis.” — Éric
AI is a powerful tool for field technicians — but human judgment remains key when it’s time to act.
Building Automation and IoT: the Backbone of Smarter Buildings
Building automation systems (BAS) — also known as immotics — make smart buildings possible by centralizing and automating control of HVAC, lighting, and more. With connected dashboards, clients can make decisions remotely and instantly.
One of our industrial clients now relies on a fully integrated system that allows us to respond in real time the moment an alert is triggered — without even being on-site.
“We’re way more efficient. Clients see the alerts, call us with precise data, and everything moves faster.” — Éric
Most buildings in Québec now include some level of building automation. However, only about 50% are fully connected and up to date.
📖 Learn more in our article with Marc Doyon, immotics engineer and smart building expert.
More Connected Systems… and More Demanding Ones
Smart buildings now generate data from many sources. While central dashboards are possible, setting them up can be costly and time-consuming for property managers.
Centralized Dashboards
Highly connected systems are a major advance — but they bring new challenges. One of the biggest? Interface overload. Each manufacturer has its own logic, design, and quirks.
“A technician has to master every brand’s dashboard. Luckily, we’re trained for that.” — Chad
Central dashboards are incredibly useful for overall management, but data consolidation, analysis, and action can be difficult for both technical teams and building managers.
Smart Security Systems: a Growing Necessity in Residential Properties
Connected security systems are becoming the norm, especially in condos and residential buildings. Smart sensors (water leaks, smoke, motion detection) help prevent issues before they escalate. These real-time alerts reduce risk and simplify insurance claims.
“These systems are now insurance essentials — some providers even require them.” — Éric
Sustainability and Changing Regulations
By 2030, new laws will reshape buildings to be smarter and more sustainable. Property owners in Québec are already bracing for what’s coming.
New Refrigerant Rules: a Transition to Plan for
The global shift to low-GWP refrigerants is accelerating. In Canada, substances like R134a and R410a will be phased out by 2030 under the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol.
This isn’t just about swapping gas. It requires:
- Equipment upgrades or replacements
- Managing refrigerant quotas
- Specialized technical expertise
“Managers should start planning now — waiting could mean rushed, expensive decisions.” — Éric
We support our clients in assessing risks, selecting compliant equipment, and securing subsidies to offset the transition costs.
Renewable Energy Integration: High Potential, Low Adoption
While energy transition efforts are increasing in Québec, real adoption remains low. Technologies like geothermal systems, solar panels, thermal walls, and hybrid systems hold real GHG reduction potential — but high upfront costs, complex subsidies, and resource limitations hinder wide-scale deployment.
“Everyone talks about it — few actually do it. It’s a big investment.” — Chad
Still, pioneers in the institutional and industrial sectors are starting to integrate these solutions. With the right support, ROI can be achieved in just a few years.
📈 Learn more about our energy optimization services to start your green shift today.
Choosing a Reliable Partner for Your Smart Building
With rapid advancements in building tech — AI, automation, smart sensors — you need a partner with the experience to guide you through decision-making, equipment selection, and integration.
Whether you manage office buildings, industrial operations, or a residential complex, your goal remains the same: delivering comfort, energy efficiency, and reliability at a sustainable cost.
That’s where BAULNE comes in.
“At the Ritz condo-hotel, systems activate automatically at check-in. It’s seamless.” — Chad
These advanced configurations don’t come from plug-and-play solutions. They require deep needs analysis, customized integration, and long-term collaboration.
🚧 Discover our design-build approach
📅 Schedule a site visit with one of our experts
About the Authors
Chad – Senior refrigeration foreman with over 23 years of experience in the industry
Learn more about his background
Éric – Senior refrigeration foreman with over 20 years of experience in controls, cooling, and HVAC systems.
About BAULNE
BAULNE — Caring for people and buildings
A Québec leader in building mechanics for over 20 years, we design and implement intelligent HVAC solutions for commercial, industrial, and institutional sectors. Our experts guide you through every stage — from design-build to maintenance and energy optimization — to ensure comfort and performance.