NYCFC is electric, or at least the stadium will be

On Wednesday, New York City FC released more information regarding the future stadium.  During a local community board meeting in Queens, it was revealed that the Pigeons are going electric.  At least, the 25,000-seater stadium will be.  The eventual home will be the “first fully electric stadium in Major League Soccer, in addition to being the first fully electric professional sports stadium in New York City."

This groundbreaking announcement extends the club’s promise of focusing on sustainability.  The green stadium will aid with the state’s focus on battling climate change.  Moreover, the plan to go electric illuminates that this is a possible direction to go in for other buildings in the city.

Based on the renditions recently released by NYCFC, it was clear the Pigeons were going the green route.  The club also highlighted how this was a focal point when building the stadium, but no one thought it would be electric.  So, how will it work?

It is simple.  The entire building will be built to run everything via electricity rather than oil and gas.  Solar panels will also be placed on the roof to harvest the natural energy of the sun as well.  There will be a backup generator, which will only be used as necessary.  Otherwise, everything will be electric.

The new NYCFC stadium will be green and electric

That is not the only way the stadium will be sustainable.  One way includes water.  NYCFC revealed they will have a water harvesting system.  The rainwater captured will be used for irrigation purposes.  Furthermore, there will be “dry urinals, proximity-controlled taps and reduced water mix taps and shower heads will help to reduce unnecessary consumption." Moreover, there will be water-refill stations which will reduce the use of plastics. 

The Pigeons will also encourage recycling and overall waste reduction.  NYCFC said they will “explore options for on-site composting of waste." This can turn organic materials into nutrients for the soil that can be used for the plants and greenery around the location. 

In addition, there is the goal to reduce the environmental impact of building the stadium and when the stadium is built.  When possible, the builders will use locally sourced materials to decrease the amount of necessary transportation.  Then, the building will be built with efficient insulation.  That can aid with less air-conditioning and heat use.  The plans to add natural ventilation will help cool down the building naturally too.

What NYCFC is doing sets a precedent for future MLS stadiums.  The club is showing that building an environmentally friendly sports venue is possible.  Of course, they must prove that everything works once their home is completed.

At the same time, the Pigeons are trying to do their part to better the city and the world.  A reduction in their environmental footprint can go a long way.  This can also be an educational opportunity, especially for the younger generation.  Not only can kids go to the game and watch their favorite team, but they can learn about sustainability. 

New York City FC made the right move by going electric and green.  This is an exciting development regarding the stadium.  It will be interesting to see what else is revealed in the upcoming years.