Water rates have increased more rapidly than any other utility for GSA, more than 40% in the past 10 years. Cooling tower water consumption represents, on average, 28% of commercial building water use. About 80% of the floor space in federally owned facilities under GSA’s jurisdiction, custody and control is conditioned by chilled water plant cooling towers.
In light of rapidly escalating water costs and mandated water reduction targets, the GSA Green Proving Ground (GPG) evaluated seven alternative water treatment (AWT) technologies. Six of these technologies proved successful and met GSA cooling tower water standards.
As a result, GSA published a water conservation guide on Alternative Water Treatment for Cooling Towers in July 2024. This guide compiles findings from the seven GPG evaluations, providing building managers with essential guidance on selecting, installing and operating AWT systems effectively. Learn more about these AWT guidelines through this infographic. On this webpage you can also download the 40-page guide for detailed information (linked on the top right corner of the page).
This article is part of the Fall issue of the FOCUS newsletter. Please visit the Focus Newsletter page .
U.S. General Services Administration
