Advancing energy efficiency and sustainability at Torre Mayor through HVAC and BAS upgrades

After more than 20 years of operation, Torre Mayor set out to modernize its HVAC and building automation systems to maintain high performance, improve energy efficiency, and support its sustainability objectives, including LEED certification. As one of Mexico City’s most prominent office towers, the building required solutions that could extend system life while meeting evolving efficiency standards.

The challenge was to introduce new, energy-efficient, low-GWP HVAC equipment that could integrate with the building’s existing infrastructure, including fixed dimensions, connections, and water intakes. Physical constraints—such as limited access and tight installation spaces—added complexity. At the same time, Torre Mayor sought greater visibility and control across its building systems through an upgraded automation platform. All work needed to be completed while the building remained fully operational, without disrupting occupants or daily business activities.

To address these challenges, Torre Mayor worked closely with Johnson Controls to design an integrated solution that balanced energy performance, operational continuity, and long-term sustainability. The approach focused on upgrading core building systems while adapting to existing conditions and minimizing disruption.

The solution included the installation of a high-efficiency 900 TR YORK® centrifugal chiller, designed for strong partial load performance and compatibility with the building’s physical constraints. In parallel, Torre Mayor upgraded to the latest version of the Metasys® Building Automation System, enabling centralized monitoring and control of more than 6,000 points across critical building systems, including HVAC, access control, and fire detection and suppression.

Together, these upgrades improved system integration and supported more informed, data-driven decision-making, laying the foundation for improved energy efficiency and long-term building performance.

As a result of the HVAC and building automation upgrades, Torre Mayor reduced energy costs, improved indoor comfort, and strengthened the efficient management of building resources through management and monitoring systems. The project also supported increased productivity while maintaining uninterrupted building operations.

Key outcomes include:

• 10% reduction in energy costs
• 40–45% energy savings during partial load conditions, enabled by the HVAC system
• Significant improvement in temperature comfort for occupants
• More efficient management of building resources through management and monitoring systems
• Increased productivity, supported by automation and energy management

Torre Mayor is one of Mexico City’s most recognizable office towers, located in the city’s financial district along Paseo de la Reforma. Inaugurated in 2003, the 59-story building is a landmark of modern design and advanced technology. Johnson Controls has supported the building since its inception with HVAC and building automation solutions