A University of Michigan building on the medical campus recently earned recognition as a “Biggest Loser” in a statewide competition, highlighting its exceptional energy-saving efforts. The A. Alfred Taubman Health Sciences Library was named a 2025 winner in the education category of the Michigan Green Building Collaborative’s Battle of the Buildings competition. This accolade celebrates outstanding energy conservation among Michigan’s commercial, industrial, and multi-family buildings.
The Battle of the Buildings program encourages energy-efficient practices and fosters friendly competition among local building owners and operators. The University of Michigan, with a strong tradition of winning, has now secured its 15th award. “The University of Michigan is advancing its campus energy transition, with a goal of achieving net-zero emissions across all campuses by 2040,” stated Jack Gosselin, regional energy manager for the Medical School.
Through the OCSI Building Tune Up program, the university identified and addressed several HVAC system issues at the Taubman Library. Adjustments made in 2024 led to a 23% reduction in energy use, cutting 100-125 metric tons of CO2 annually and saving $30,000 in costs, with all investments recouped within a year. Mary Tresh, senior director of Medical School Facilities, praised the team’s dedication and expertise.
The library, supporting research and curricular needs of health sciences schools and the Michigan Medicine Ann Arbor medical campus, underwent a $55 million renovation. Reopening in 2015 as a technology-driven learning center, it achieved LEED Gold Certification, further underscoring its commitment to sustainable practices.
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