Trane Technologies, a leader in climate innovation, announced its definitive agreement to acquire BrainBox AI, a Montreal-based pioneer in autonomous HVAC controls and generative AI building technology.
BrainBox AI’s enterprise platform leverages advanced deep learning to optimise building energy use, cutting consumption by up to 25% and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by up to 40%. The technology, currently deployed across over 14,000 commercial buildings globally, targets the 15% of global GHG emissions attributed to heating and cooling.
“Advanced AI technology is supercharging what’s possible as we reduce energy and emissions from the built environment. BrainBox AI and Trane Technologies share a passion for accelerating and scaling innovative, customer-focused AI solutions and smart building technologies that address the world’s pressing climate challenges. We look forward to welcoming the talented BrainBox AI team,” said Riaz Raihan, Chief Digital Officer, Trane Technologies.
The acquisition builds on a two-year collaboration between the companies, which combined Trane’s cloud-based building automation system with BrainBox AI’s technology. Their joint Trane® Autonomous Control solution analyses real-time data to predict energy loads, optimise HVAC performance, and reduce carbon footprints for clients.
BrainBox AI, led by CEO Sam Ramadori and Co-founder/CTO Jean-Simon Venne, employs over 190 associates across Canada and the US. The team will join Trane Technologies, maintaining BrainBox AI’s Montreal operations to drive global AI innovation within the region’s thriving ecosystem.
“At BrainBox AI, we believe in the power of AI in addressing climate change. Combining BrainBox AI’s advanced technology with Trane Technologies’ leading digital platform and best-in-class global direct sales capabilities will accelerate the deployment of smart building solutions worldwide and achieve greater outcomes for our people, customers and the world. We look forward to an exciting new chapter for BrainBox AI as part of Trane Technologies,” said Ramadori.
BrainBox AI recently launched ARIA, an AI platform recognized as one of TIME’s Best Inventions of 2024. Dubbed the world’s first virtual building engineer, ARIA provides facility managers with advanced data visualisation, reasoning, and action capabilities.
This acquisition aligns with Trane Technologies’ strategy of integrating innovative technologies into its core business to enhance long-term growth. The deal is expected to close in early 2025, with no material financial impact disclosed.