Grenadier Square: Turning Sustainability Goals into Measurable Results

Grenadier Square has received the MAC Climate Leadership Award of Excellence from FRPO, recognizing the real progress that has been made in reducing its environmental impact. The award shows that older residential buildings can be improved in meaningful ways while continuing to be great places to live.

Grenadier Square is a two‑tower residential community in Toronto’s High Park neighbourhood that was built in 1969. Over several years, the building team focused on making smart upgrades that reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, while keeping homes comfortable and in high demand.

Between 2018 and 2025, Grenadier Square reduced its overall greenhouse gas emissions by 35% and lowered its energy use by 33%. At the same time, the community maintained strong occupancy levels of 95% to 97%. These results show that management of environmental factors and resident satisfaction can go hand in hand.

The improvements came through practical changes to how the buildings operate. These included a building automation system to manage heating, cooling and ventilation, energy‑efficient LED lighting, and upgrades to boiler systems. Heat recovery technology was added to reuse energy that would otherwise be wasted from the swimming pool. When suites were updated, energy‑efficient appliances and digital thermostats were installed. About 70% of suites now have individual electricity meters, helping residents better understand and manage their energy use.

Building performance is tracked using ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager and internal monitoring tools to enable continued progress over time. Residents are also part of the effort, with access to simple tips and digital resources that support energy conservation and waste reduction.

This recognition is an important milestone, but it’s part of a longer journey. Grenadier Square is one example of GWLRA’s efforts to reduce carbon intensity across its portfolio, while building efficient, resilient communities for the future.