Marco Tomayo proposes geothermal systems to eliminate cooling towers

Thank you, Madam Chair.

My name is Marco Tomayo.

I'm an architect, resident of the Opry side.

I'm an expert in sustainability.

The recent Legionella outbreak in our community should make us reconsider how we design and operate our buildings.

Cooling towers require continuous maintenance, water treatment, inspections, and strict regulatory compliance like you are doing today.

But even the strictest regulations cannot completely eliminate the human error.

Rather than relying on better maintenance, we should consider a technology that reduces the source of risk.

Geothermal systems can provide heating and cooling without conventional cooling towers, reducing the potential for legionella exposure.

Geothermal systems also require less mechanical room spaces, reducing equipment and infrastructure at the top of the buildings.

At the same time, geothermal systems substantially reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions, helping buildings comply with the New York City Local Law 97, which requires reductions in building emissions.

Although initial construction costs may increase by approximately 17%, long-term energy and maintenance savings can make this investment economically worthwhile.

For these reasons, I propose that geothermal systems shall be mandatory for new buildings and projects receiving discretionary approval in these chambers, where they can replace

conventional cooling towers.

This is not about replacing regulations.

It is about eliminating.

unnecessary risk at their source while creating buildings that are healthier, safer, lower carbon, and more efficient.

Thank you.

Thank you very much.

Next.