National Library and Archives Canada

Gatineau, Québec, Canada

Credits: David Knox

The National Archives campus in Gatineau comprises the original Preservation Centre and the newer Preservation Storage Facility, both managed by EQUANS Services Inc. The five-storey Preservation Centre, approximately 26,000 m², houses dozens of secure vaults that safeguard Canada’s most valuable archival. It was purpose-built to maintain stable, preservation-grade environmental conditions, with energy efficiency considered as a secondary objective

Pratus Group led a detailed Decarbonization and Net-Zero Feasibility Study to address end-of-life systems and meet contractual energy and GHG targets. Using parametric energy modelling, we compared multiple pathways, including one exceeding 80% GHG reduction and another achieving Net Zero. Our study evaluated heat recovery and electrification options, ventilation energy recovery, on-site solar and storage potential, operational implications, constructability in an occupied facility, and order-of-magnitude cost and schedule impacts. Quasar Consulting Group then provided the mechanical and electrical design to implement the preferred solution.

The project advanced mechanical and electrical concepts to the 33% Design Development level, validated technical feasibility, and aligned solutions with budget and schedule parameters through Class D cost estimating. Although the decarbonization pathway is now proceeding to implementation, the study provided the client with a comprehensive, actionable roadmap for deep carbon reduction and Net Zero readiness.

Services: Decarbonization and Net Zero Feasibility Study