Carnegie Mellon University
March 01, 2021

TCS Hall on Carnegie Mellon Campus Earns LEED Gold Certification

By Bruce Gerson

Jason Maderer
  • Marketing and Communications
  • 412-268-1151
Carnegie Mellon University's TCS Hall has achieved LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council for its energy efficiency and sustainability.

The milestone for the new 90,000 square-foot building on Forbes Avenue that opened in 2020 was made possible with a $35 million gift from Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), a global IT and business solutions company. The five-story structure houses the School of Computer Science's Institute for Software Research, the Master of Science in Computational Finance program, and the Center for Business Engagement. The top floor of the building includes space where researchers from TCS can collaborate with CMU scientists to create and promote next-generation technologies.

TCS Hall is highly efficient, using 32% less energy than conventional buildings of similar size. Its mechanical and ventilation systems underwent an enhanced commissioning process to ensure optimal performance. Occupants can control temperatures in their individual spaces, while carbon dioxide sensors trigger an automated system that cycles fresh air into the building. Paint, finishes, and materials made from low volatile organic compounds were used to help maintain a healthy indoor environment.

Nearly 30% of construction materials were purchased locally to reduce the carbon footprint of construction. Thirty percent of the building materials also included recycled content, and 75% of the waste created during construction was either recycled or salvaged. The 35-space parking garage, accessible via Filmore Street, includes secure bicycle parking with a shower to encourage commuting by bicycle.

Carnegie Mellon is committed to adopting the LEED green building rating system for all new construction and significant renovations. All projects are designed and constructed to meet the current version of the LEED for New Construction and Major Renovations (LEED-NC) standard, or Commercial Interiors (LEED-CI). The university has established the goal of achieving a minimum of a LEED "Silver" rating.

TCS Hall is the 21st CMU project to earn LEED certification.

Tata Consultancy Services is an IT services, consulting and business solutions organization that has been partnering with many of the world's largest businesses in their transformation journeys for over 50 years. A part of the Tata group, India's largest multinational business group, TCS has over 469,000 of the world's best-trained consultants in 46 countries. The company generated consolidated revenues of US $22 billion in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020.

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