Abacus Self Storage in Richmond Hill, Ontario, installed a net-metered, solar-photovoltaic system that’ll meet 95 percent of the facility’s energy needs and displace 1.6 tons of greenhouse gas emissions per year. The 112kW system at 25 Colston Court will generate approximately 120,000 kWh of electricity per year, according to a source. It was installed by Alectric, a Toronto-based solar-energy provider.

Abacus began working on the project about a year ago. While company executives told a source they don’t expect a big return on their investment, the self-storage operator will enjoy tax benefits. “This investment in our collective futures by Abacus Self Storage reflects our ongoing commitment to the community we serve. It is also only one in a long and continuing series of steps to being a best-in-class self-storage facility, with consistent emphasis on great service, super-clean facilities, and continuous improvements to ensure superb security,” according to the Abacus blog.

To recognize the company’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint, 112 trees will be planted, one for each kWh created annually by the solar-panel installation. That project will take place through Alectric’s partnership with Tree Canada, a nonprofit that promotes the planting and nurturing of trees in urban and rural areas.

Opened in 1999, Abacus offers climate-controlled storage, serving the communities of Markham, North York, Thornhill, Richmond Hill and Vaughan, Ontario. It’s been named a “Consumer’s Choice Award” winner in York for three consecutive years.

Source:
York Region, Abacus Self Storage in Richmond Hill Goes Solar
Abacus Self Storage, Abacus Will Have 112 Trees Planted in Recognition of Its New Solar Panel Installation