In November 2018, our building automation expert Marc Doyon published an article on how smart buildings are evolving thanks to automation technology. Today, this remains one of the most visited articles on our HVAC news page.
But the technology landscape has drastically evolved. Back in 2018, AI in building management was in its infancy. Today, it’s everywhere. We sat down with Marc Doyon again to take stock of the changes.
What’s Changed Since 2018
Marc Doyon, Eng.:
“AI has transformed how we manage buildings. It works in the background 24/7. It analyzes, anticipates, triggers service calls, and suggests preventive maintenance actions—all automatically. It’s a virtual employee that never sleeps.”
AI + BUILDING AUTOMATION: A WINNING COMBO
Building automation is well established in Québec, but nearly 50% of existing systems are now outdated, according to Marc Doyon. These systems may still function, but they don’t fully leverage modern technologies like web integration, connected sensors, or advanced dashboards.
To fully benefit from AI in building management, systems must first be modernized. Outdated automation limits data collection, reduces communication between HVAC, lighting, and security systems, and slows the shift to proactive building management.
“AI is like a brain—but without a healthy body, meaning an up-to-date automation system, it can’t function properly.” — Marc Doyon
Once systems are modernized, AI can be implemented strategically. Here are some practical applications:
- Predictive energy optimization: AI analyzes usage patterns to automatically adjust HVAC and lighting based on real-time occupancy.
- Predictive maintenance: AI detects anomalies like vibrations or temperature fluctuations to anticipate equipment failures.
- Smart air quality control: AI cross-references CO₂, humidity, and particulate data to regulate air renewal in real time.
- Equipment scheduling: AI learns usage patterns and reduces unnecessary system runtimes.
- Anomaly detection: In both safety and performance, AI alerts managers to abnormal system behavior.
This level of intelligent automation leads not only to energy savings but also to improvements in comfort, safety, and sustainability.
INVISIBLE—BUT REAL—SAVINGS
AI’s benefits don’t always show up in short-term financial statements, but over time, they’re clear:
- Fewer service calls
- Less human intervention through automation
- Greater energy efficiency
- Lower overall operational costs
Explore our energy optimization services to realize these benefits in your building.
REGULATION ON THE HORIZON
The Québec government plans to introduce mandatory energy ratings for all buildings. Similar to appliance energy labels, this rating must be clearly posted. It aligns with the National Energy Code for Buildings (NECB) 2020 and the country’s net-zero goals by 2050.
To improve energy scores, owners will need to invest in:
- High-efficiency equipment (HVAC, lighting, etc.)
- Modern, connected, and automated control systems
- Centralized, AI-powered building management
Automation as a Tool for Compliance and Performance
Certification systems like LEED and BOMA BEST—increasingly popular in Québec—already require:
- Automated energy tracking
- Continuous system adaptability
- Rigorous performance documentation
AI becomes a key enabler. With modern automation in place, AI helps to:
- Adapt systems automatically to occupancy and weather
- Generate continuous energy reports
- Detect issues before they escalate
- Actively reduce a building’s carbon footprint, in line with energy transition goals
A New Standard for Buildings in Québec
According to the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ), this upcoming regulation aims to lower building energy intensity and enhance occupant comfort. The NECB 2020, developed by Canada’s National Research Council, provides the technical foundation for this shift.
The transition has begun. To remain compliant and competitive, buildings must start integrating smart technologies—anchored in the synergy between AI and automation.
THE HUMAN ROLE IN SMART BUILDINGS
Marc Doyon:
“Every job evolves with AI. Technicians work faster, operators issue orders more easily, designers make better decisions with more data—and even occupants can personalize their environment.”
Despite automation, humans remain central: AI doesn’t replace intuition, experience, or personalized support.
RETHINK YOUR AUTOMATION STRATEGY WITH AN EXPERT
Before jumping into AI, you need a modern automation foundation.
Marc:
“A well-implemented system is an investment with long-term returns. Without it, you risk falling behind.”
At BAULNE, we support commercial, industrial, and institutional building managers in upgrading and maintaining their automation systems:
WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT BUILDING AUTOMATION?
Check out our expert-written articles:
Schedule a visit from one of our experts
Book your free building assessment today. Let’s optimize your building for the future. Contact us now.
ABOUT BAULNE
BAULNE – Caring for People and Buildings.
A leader in building mechanics in Québec for over 20 years, BAULNE designs, integrates, and optimizes intelligent technology solutions for commercial, industrial, and institutional environments.
Our team supports you at every step—from smart design-build to ongoing maintenance—to maximize your comfort, performance, and energy efficiency.
Learn more about our expertise.
