Markley seeks diesel generators amid community concerns over environmental impact

The Lowell Environmental Flood Issues Subcommittee convened on June 3, 2025, to discuss critical matters surrounding the use of diesel generators in the city. The meeting primarily focused on the approval of diesel as a fuel source for backup generators, with significant attention given to environmental concerns and future planning.

During the session, members addressed the necessity of using diesel fuel, clarifying that alternative fuel options were not feasible due to the size and infrastructure requirements of the generators. The discussion highlighted that the current plan involves four generators, with a potential expansion to a total of 27 in the future. This expansion could lead to a substantial diesel consumption of approximately 62,000 gallons on-site.

Councilor Robinson raised concerns about the environmental impact of diesel generators, particularly regarding emissions and noise. The representatives from Markley, the company proposing the generators, assured the council that they are committed to working with the city's sustainability coordinator to address these issues. They emphasized that while they are moving forward with the immediate need for the four generators, they are also planning for future phases to ensure a methodical approach to the project.

Vice Chair Ratha Yum questioned the choice of diesel over natural gas, noting that many residential backup generators use gas. The representatives explained that the infrastructure required for natural gas would be significantly more complex and costly, involving extensive upgrades to gas lines and on-site storage solutions. They argued that diesel was a more practical choice given the current circumstances.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the representatives to return to the council for further discussions as the project progresses. The subcommittee's focus on diesel fuel usage underscores the ongoing challenges of balancing energy needs with environmental considerations in Lowell.