Green Self-Storage
By Jerry Brown
2/22/2016
The visual Image generated by the thought of self-storage is usually that of identical buildings, with row upon row of identical garage doors. Pretty boring, right? But beneath that none-too-exciting exterior, storage facilities are the perfect testing grounds for new “green self-storage technologies”.
Green self-storage
Green, eco-friendly buildings can use one-third less energy than standard buildings, and self storage facilities are the perfect testing grounds for energy conservation. The typical self-storage configuration of flat roofed buildings makes the installation of solar panels a no brainer for the owner considering going green. Solar energy not only replaces the use of energy created by fossil fuels, but can also reduce energy costs to the facility, which could then be passed on to the consumer. A win/win for everyone involved!
Beyond green energy, storage facility owners are increasingly considering the wider environmental impacts of their businesses. Most have rules against storing any substance that, if allowed to spill or leak into storm drains, could pose a hazard to the environment. Many require tenants to use specified recycle areas for disposal of certain types of items or materials. Simple changes like the movement toward energy efficient lighting triggered by motion detectors can be a great, yet sometimes overlooked, energy saver. Greg Meckel, owner of The Storage Inn located in Egg Harbor Township, NJ, spoke about green self-storage. “As a company, we strive to be more environmentally friendly everyday from our use of solar panels, to upgraded LED lighting and the use of organic cleaners.”
As many businesses continue to move toward more green practices and consumers show preference for more and more green products, storage facilities will undoubtedly continue to follow suit.
In addition to Egg Harbor Township The Storage Inn serves towns in the area such as Ocean City, Absecon, Atlantic City, Galloway, Pleasantville, Ventnor,Mays Landing, Somers Point and others.