MONTREAL COMMONS, a pioneering apartment development in Fremantle, Western Australia, has achieved a significant milestone with its ‘topping out’ completion, marking the final stages of construction and preparing for the interior fit-out. 

The 39-apartment building by OP Properties is set to become one of the first carbon-neutral residential buildings in Australia, revolutionising the way residents live and offering them financial rewards for their eco-conscious choices.

Residents of Montreal Commons will have the unique opportunity to “get paid to live low carbon” through the use of solar panels, battery storage, and an innovative internal power trading system. 

This arrangement not only reduces carbon emissions but also provides an offset to building strata levies, effectively offering residents a financial benefit for choosing a sustainable lifestyle.

OP Properties director Luke Parker emphasised the significance of Montreal Commons in transforming the way people live and work. 

Innovative

“The last three years have provided the opportunity for innovative new thinking around the way we live and work, with a strong focus on access to quality amenity, fresh air, sunlight, and green spaces as well as the opportunity for working and exercising close to home. Montreal Commons helps set new benchmarks in sustainability and liveability,” Mr Parker said.

With its commitment to 100 per cent sustainably sourced power, Montreal Commons is projected to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 240 tonnes per year, equivalent to around 6 tonnes per apartment. 

South Metro Greens MLC Brad Pettitt was mayor of Fremantle when the Knutsford precinct was first floated with high sustainability aspirations, paving the way for OP Properties’ development.

“Montreal Commons is setting a new bar for carbon-neutral, sustainable living in WA,” Dr Pettitt said.

“It ticks so many boxes; not only is it beautifully designed, gentle density, but it also demonstrates world-class environmental leadership through its carbon-neutral and low-scheme water use design. 

“It really is a complete package and will be a One Planet Living exemplar that demonstrates the kind of leadership we need to see more of in WA’s development and property sector. 

Fremantle mayor Hannah Fitzhardinge said the development would help create a more liveable and connected community.

“It’s an excellent example of urban density done well through innovative, sustainable design,” Ms Fitzhardinge said.

“The development helps bring to life the City’s vision for establishing the Knutsford precinct as a world-class example of sustainable living. 

“The topping-out is an exciting milestone, and we can’t wait to welcome our newest residents once the project is completed – there really is no