Aire commune unveils Espace solaire, Quebec’s first outdoor public space powered entirely by solar energy. Since this summer, visitors have been able to experience this new permanent installation in the heart of Montreal’s Olympic Park.

At the intersection of urban design, landscape architecture and energy innovation, Espace solaire explores how energy production can be integrated directly into the design of a public space.

The site was conceived as a place to gather, relax and work outdoors. Shaded structures, integrated furniture, Wi-Fi-enabled workspaces, electrical outlets and landscaping create an environment designed to accommodate a variety of uses throughout the day.

Rather than treating energy infrastructure as a separate technical component, the project integrates it directly into the architecture of the site. The solar panels become a visible part of the design, contributing to both the function and identity of the space.

“Espace solaire embodies our vision of creating meaningful, sustainable and accessible public spaces. By fully integrating solar energy into the design, we are demonstrating that innovation, conviviality and the energy transition can go hand in hand,” says Philippe Pelletier, co-founder of Aire commune.

When energy becomes part of the design

Developed in collaboration with Sunbird Énergie, the energy system combines solar power generation, energy storage and intelligent power management to supply the site’s various amenities.

From the earliest stages of the design process, this infrastructure was considered an integral component of the project, alongside furniture, vegetation, shade and lighting. This approach makes the energy infrastructure visible while exploring its architectural potential.

“Espace solaire at Olympic Park represented a great opportunity for us to demonstrate, on a smaller scale, the important role infrastructure will need to play in the energy transition. More than a showcase for technology, this project provides a tangible example of how on-site solar generation, energy storage and intelligent power management can help support the province’s energy transition,” adds Simon Lafleur, founder and president of Sunbird Énergie.

A new destination in the heart of Olympic Park

Located within Olympic Park, one of Quebec’s most iconic architectural landmarks, Espace solaire contributes to the site’s ongoing transformation into a vibrant, accessible urban park that can be enjoyed year-round.

“With the arrival of Espace solaire, our public urban park continues to evolve to better meet the changing needs of our visitors and contribute to the vitality of the area. This permanent outdoor installation perfectly reflects our vision for the future of Olympic Park: a vibrant and accessible destination featuring sustainable design that enhances the visitor experience,” adds Joëlle Brodeur, President and CEO of Olympic Park.

A showcase for Quebec’s solar potential

While solar energy is growing rapidly around the world, Quebec still has significant untapped potential. With Espace solaire, Aire commune offers a human-scale demonstration of what a new generation of energy-autonomous public spaces could look like.

By integrating energy production directly into the urban landscape, the project demonstrates how infrastructure can actively contribute to the energy transition without compromising architectural quality or the user experience.