As the world continue to look for new energy sources, solar power is becoming a hot commodity. And with ample rooftops, self-storage is a natural fit.
Sovran Self Storage recently announced it’s considering jumping into the solar biz. The company, which owns or manages more than 25 million square feet of storage units in 24 states, is weighing the merits of solar power. The company operates under Uncle Bob's Self Storage. Sovran’s chief executive officer, Kenneth Myszka, talked up the topic last week at Sovran’s annual shareholders meeting.
There are already dozens of self-storage facilities already generating electricity with solar power. Bellam Self Storage & Boxes in Marin County, Calif., 126 Self Storage in Ashland, Mass., and Acorn Mini Storage in Brentwood, Calif., are generating electricity through solar panels located on the top of the facilities. In some states, you can even sell excess energy back to the power company.
While adding solar power can be a costly upfront investment, there are federal and state tax rebates and grants available to cut the costs. Grants covered about half of the cost for solar projects at Planet Self Storage and Storage Plus. Solar can also be added to RV and boat carports.
Look for more on how self-storage facilities can take advantage of solar energy in the July issue of ISS. If you’ve added solar to your facility—or considering it—share your story by posting a comment below.
We're also putting together a panel of experts to discuss the topic at the Inside Self-Storage World Expo in Washington, D.C., Oct. 5-8. More information on the seminar specifics will be available in the coming weeks. Get the agenda-at a glance and register today.