A Retailer That Takes Going Green to the Extreme
A new bicycle store in Las Vegas called Las Vegas Cyclery is taking green retailing to the extreme.
Owner Jared Fisher spent $2.8 million on creating what he believes is the only net-zero energy bicycle store in the country, according to the March 1 issue of Bicycle Retailer and Industry News. That is, his store produces more electricity per year than what it uses from the local power company, NV Energy. Las Vegas Cyclery is also well on its way to achieving Platinum LEED certification, the highest green building recognition.
To create the net-zero bike shop, Fisher began working with consultants in 2008. The design includes two methods to cool and heat the building — high-efficiency air conditioning and cooling systems for Las Vegas’ famous extreme heat and cold as well as evaporative coolers for moderate weather. A state-of-the-art occupancy sensor lighting system emits little heat to minimize electricity use.
Shoppers can track the energy savings by checking out the store’s “renewable energy room,” which is protected by a Plexiglas panel. Bean-bag-style chairs stuffed with bicycle box packing debris offer seating in front of the panel.
The store works like a power plant because of a $30,000 wind turbine outside the building and 208 solar panels on its roof. Other green touches include the “recycle center room,” where old tire tubes are collected for myriad uses while an energy power station juices up electric bicycles. There’s also outdoor parking for 50 bikes, a dirt trail that loops around the building and preferred parking spaces for energy-efficient cars like hybrids.
What do you think about this approach to retailing? Is becoming more "green" a goal for your company this year? If so, what are you planning on doing? Please let us know by leaving a comment below!
- People:
- Jared Fisher
- Places:
- Las Vegas
