Prince Albert II accepted a “Sustainable Mediterranean Buildings of Monaco” (BD2M) certification for the reconstruction project of the New Wing at the Prince’s Palace during a ceremony on 18 September 2026. The ceremony took place at the Prince’s Palace, and was attended by those involved in the project.
The “Silver level” certification was awarded for the new wing’s “design phase” and it highlights the environmental and energy-related ambitions of the reconstruction, which was driven by the Sovereign.
“Carried out within a highly controlled heritage setting, the ‘New Wing II’ project seeks to reconcile the preservation of the site’s architectural identity and historic facades with high-quality functionality and environmental performance—all in line with the Sovereign Prince’s commitments to sustainable development,” said the Princely Palace in a recent press release.
First seawater thermal loop in Monaco-Ville
The project notably includes the installation of a seawater-based thermal loop—a first for the Monaco-Ville district.
Championed by HSH Prince Albert II, this system harnesses seawater as an energy source to meet the building’s heating and cooling requirements. It helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels and optimizes the building’s energy management.
According to the Palace, the design of the new wing has also prioritized the use of high-performance, bio-based materials, the reuse of resources, and the principles of a circular economy, while also engaging Monegasque and local businesses. Particular attention has also been paid to “water resource management, bioclimatic design, and the optimization of the building’s energy performance”.
Achieving the “Sustainable Mediterranean Buildings of Monaco” (BD2M) certification at the Silver level was a goal set by the Sovereign.
“Through its design, the New Wing II of the Prince’s Palace effectively reconciles the preservation of heritage with the requirements of the environmental and energy transition, while also contributing to a broader discussion on how the BD2M framework can be adapted for projects involving historic and individual structures,” says the Prince’s Palace.
