Among the eco-friendly strategies deployed by some self-storage operators to save money, attract customers and reduce their carbon footprint is the addition of solar panels to facility and carport roofing. The development process and revenue potential associated with this method of “going green” will be highlighted during the Inside Self-Storage World Expo in Las Vegas, both as part of the education program as well as during a private evening reception. The events will be hosted by Baja Construction Co. Inc., a design/build company specializing in carports, RV/boat storage and Solar Support Structures.

“Developing and Making Money With a Solar Storage Facility” will be held at 3 p.m. on March 31 as part of the expo’s Development & Construction education track. Presented by Bob Hayworth, president of Baja Construction, and Robin Heuer, partner and chief operating officer of Elevated Solar, the seminar will showcase Oakley Executive RV & Boat Storage in the San Francisco Bay Area as a proof of concept for a facility that produces solar power and business income.

The project features more than 170,000 square feet of canopy parking and solar panels that generate more than 1.5 megawatts of solar power. Attendees will learn the specifics of the Oakley facility and how a similar approach may apply to their storage properties. Topics will include timelines, financing, costs, tax benefits, revenue potential and more. A documentary video will detail how Baja’s team was successful in generating cash flow at the facility and how other owners and investors can make money with a similar model.

Baja will also host a private cocktail reception at 7:30 p.m. that evening for pre-qualified self-storage owners, developers and investors. A screening of the Oakley documentary will also be part of this limited-seating event.

The ISS Expo’s concurrent education program, March 31 and April 1, includes nine tracks covering issues related to self-storage ownership, management, marketing, investment, finance, building, development, liability and more. Five add-on workshop options are also available, focusing on day-to-day management, development, facility ownership, legal issues and social media.

The conference and tradeshow will take place at the Paris Hotel & Resort. Discount registration rates are available through March 28.

Created for self-storage owners, managers, developers, investors and suppliers, the ISS Expo is the industry’s largest conference and tradeshow, comprising four days of education, exhibits and networking opportunities. The event focuses on strategies for generating revenue, best practices, current trends, and new products and services. Details and online registration are available at www.insideselfstorageworldexpo.com.