New York City FC intends to construct the league’s first totally electric stadium, with a variety of sustainability measures included into the design of the 25,000-seat complex.
The stadium’s design and construction will emphasise renewable energy, with an array of solar panels erected on the roof to optimise energy generation. Built-in efficiency will guarantee that intelligent systems avoid energy waste, and an emergency backup generator will be installed and only used when there is a utility power loss or when code-required testing is completed.
A water harvesting system will also be installed beneath the pitch to collect rainwater for usage in irrigation. Water-saving technologies – such as dry urinals, proximity-controlled taps, and decreased water mix taps and shower heads – can help to minimise wasteful use even more.
The Willets Point development project will also deliver a total of 2,500 units of 100% affordable housing at the site, as well as a 650-seat public school, 40,000 square feet of new public open space, retail space and a 250-key hotel.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams spoke on what the innovative stadium plan meant for the city.
“I’m proud that New York City will be home to the first fully electric sports stadium in Major League Soccer,” he stated via press release.
“It’s imperative that we continue our shift to a more sustainable and resilient future, helping New York to better prepare for a changing climate.
“As a city, we’re reshaping our relationship with energy: how we generate, store and use it. New York City Football Club’s stadium will serve as a model for that goal. New York City has taken significant steps to become more sustainable, resilient and equitable, and this proposed stadium encompasses those commitments.”
Brad Sims, NYCFC Chief Executive, added via media release:
“New York City Football Club is proud to release details of what would be a historic first-ever fully electric professional sports stadium for both MLS and New York City,” he said.
“Sustainability is at the heart of this project and we’re focused on ensuring that the club is leading the way when it comes to reducing environmental impact. We’re committed to building a stadium that serves as a model for projects in the future.”
The privately funded stadium will be New York City’s first soccer-specific stadium and the city’s first major league sports facility since Barclays Centre debuted as the home of the NBA’s Brooklyn Nets in 2012.
The stadium is expected to open in 2027. Since its inception in Major League Soccer in 2015, NYCFC has predominantly played at Yankee Stadium, the home of Major League Baseball’s New York Yankees.
