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 project involved integrating energy-efficient, low-GWP HVAC equipment within existing infrastructure constraints, including fixed dimensions, connections, and water intakes.

Limited access and tight installation spaces added complexity. At the same time, Torre Mayor required greater visibility and control across building systems through an upgraded automation platform. All work had 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 a 900 TR YORK® centrifugal chiller, designed for high efficiency during partial load conditions, using a low-GWP refrigerant to support sustainability and LEED requirements, and engineered to meet 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:

• Achieved 10% energy cost savings
• Up to 45% HVAC energy savings during partial load conditions
• Improved temperature control and occupant comfort
• Optimized building operations through integrated automation
• Completed the upgrade with zero operational disruption

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