The store, which comprises of 53,534 sq ft of storage space and two 5,000 sq ft trade counters, has been fitted with Photovoltaic (PV) panels on its southerly facing roof. These panels are capable of generating 175kWh/m2/yr, and with 70m2 of roof space being covered, Access are able to generate 12,281kWh/yr, offsetting 6,976kg CO2/yr. The PV panels generate energy by absorbing solar energy and releasing electrons which are then converted to AC current, and because they’re not visible from the ground they enable Access to generate energy on-site, without negatively affecting the aesthetics of the local area.
Beyond Byfleet, Access already supports the sustainability agenda with buildings generally being unheated – giving business and domestic users the opportunity to cut down on costly heated stock and storage spaces. Plus, many of Access’s 50 stores are located in or close to residential or mixed use areas, providing means for local people to work near their homes. Furthermore, the cardboard moving and storing boxes available in store are made from fully or mostly recycled materials and even used boxes can be returned to store for recycling.
Not satisfied with these factors alone, and with the aim of a continuous reduction in the company’s energy usage, in the summer of 2006 Access conducted a detailed study into the workings of stores. This included a full assessment of energy use, customer visit frequencies and times, and concluded in the establishment of a benchmark for energy usage.
The result – the new Byfleet store shows Access reducing predicted electrical consumption at the facility by a massive 26% and total CO2 emissions by 21.5%, achieved through the introduction of energy efficient lighting and appliance measures; Where possible, natural daylight has been made-use of, with controls fitted to electrical lighting to ensure that this only kicks in when natural light is not sufficient. A highly sophisticated access system also controls lighting - customers all have their own unique PIN number to enter the building, and when they do so full corridor lighting is activated only between the entrance point and the user’s specified storage area. All non-critical lighting and power is switched off during out-of-hours periods.
In terms of appliances, Access have reduced predicted energy consumption by installing traction operated lifts in place of hydraulic, and using Air Source Heat pumps to heat the reception area. Where applicable Access also use Bio-fuel boilers.
Access believes communicating important sustainability messages to its customers is important, and a monitor in reception displays the current amount of power being generated by the PV panels, the level of CO2 offset and the total energy which has been generated.
Access Self Storage will officially launch its new store on Oyster Lane on Thursday 2 April with representatives from Ecofirst – who installed the PV panels – attending.
Any members of the public who wish to view the facility, and see exactly how much CO2 is being offset are welcome to attend from 10am on 2 April.
Notes to Editors
Access Self Storage has 49 stores nationwide, with many also offering office space
Ecofirst was established in 2006 by sustainable housing pioneers ZeroC and the company’s eco-friendly solutions include solar water heating systems, photovoltaics, wood-pellet boilers, rainwater harvesting, wind turbines, heat pumps and insulation.