If going green is a priority to a self-storage owner, consider these ideas on your next self-storage development project. While self-storage facilities are already fairly environmentally friendly, it’s easier to design a new build with LEED certification in mind. According to Architecture 2030, “The built environment is responsible for about 42% of annual global CO2 emissions.” The structure and other construction factors add to the ecological load of a building on the environment.
What is LEED?
According to the USGBC, “LEED is a series of rating systems aimed at increasing the environmental and health performance of buildings sites and structures and neighborhoods. LEED® covers the design, construction, and operation of all types of buildings.” The USGBC provides extensive information regarding LEED certification here.
LEED certification is based on a points system with ratings that begin at certified, silver, gold, and platinum. Buildings receive points based on efficient construction related to carbon, energy, waste, water, transportation, materials, health, and indoor environmental quality. The more environmentally sound your construction, the more points your building will earn.
Self-Storage Today
Many self-storage buildings are constructed in an energy-efficient way. Steel and concrete buildings are low VOC naturally, so the structure is already more energy efficient. Many owners seek to cut costs in construction and operation and use things like LED lighting, motion sensors, and mechanical accessibility options that enable 24/7 access for customers. There are many energy-efficient features in most self-storage operations already.
LEED Documentation
To receive LEED certification, documentation of the project construction must be maintained and provided to prove the certification level. While many zoning commissions already require documentation on green methods employed during construction, LEED certification requires documentation in much greater detail. The USGBC wants to see the receipts…all of them.
The idea behind LEED is to build buildings that are sustainable and better for the environment. The building must be well-maintained and able to last a long time. Think of derelict buildings in a community that are not just an eye sore, but also produce a negative impact on the environment. Eventually, those buildings are torn down and replaced. The idea behind LEED is to construct a building in a way that is sustainable up front and long-lasting so that the long-term effect on the environment is lessened.
Marketing
Consumers today are driven by sustainability. When they search for a place to do business, it’s a plus if they find a company that is environmentally friendly and sustainably built. Smart business owners will capitalize on this when marketing to their customers.
Areas to Consider Energy Efficiency
Even if it’s not possible to pursue LEED certification because it is costly and time-consuming, there are many ways to increase energy efficiency in the construction of your business.
- Building position on the land to use the sun to work for you
- Proficient use of machines and equipment by employees
- Doors that seal well to avoid escaping hot or cold air
- HVAC systems designed for efficient operation
- Motion sensor LEDs throughout
- Solar panels
During new construction, many owners are already looking for ways to cut operating costs, and as a result, the latest build will be an energy-efficient machine if operated correctly. There are many ways to adopt these practices in current buildings as well. While the position of a building on an existing property may not be changeable currently, making the current setup work for energy efficiency is possible. Making small changes can lead to significant savings to the bottom line and be better for the environment.
As owners and operators consider sustainability, energy efficiency, and even LEED certification, our team at Coastal Storage is ready to work with you every step of the way. We partner with owners and investors who have a vision for the future. We would love to work with you. Call us today at 904-591-0140.