U.S. Venture continues to strive to Find a Better Way for our businesses, our partners, and our communities. To improve our environmental sustainability, on-site solar is a growing consideration to lower greenhouse gas emissions and improve the way we do business. U.S. AutoForce, a U.S. Venture company, brings more than 70 years of experience as an industry leader in the distribution of tires and parts to independent tire retailers, auto repair shops, and automotive dealerships. Today, we have more than 70 distribution centers strategically located across the nation.
U.S. AutoForce made a strategic decision to implement its first on-site solar project at the West Allis, WI, warehouse, officially commissioned in August of 2023. Just over a year into the project, the West Allis warehouse has cut down on its electricity usage by over 40% and electricity costs by over 60% compared to the previous year. The solar array also generates more electricity than we need for our operations, allowing surplus electricity to be sold back to the local grid – ultimately helping to improve the financials of the facility. Within the West Allis location, there is a monitor that shares the performance of our solar array with team members and visitors, allowing them to see our sustainability progress. In total, solar has allowed this facility to reduce its emissions (combined scope 1 and 2) by nearly 20% while producing enough electricity that would be equivalent to powering over 35 homes for an entire year.
Our focus on sustainability is front of mind as we evaluate new and existing facilities across our logistics network. We are investing in upgrading facilities across the national footprint by installing energy efficient lighting, testing and deploying Battery Electric Vehicles, and sourcing biofuels where appropriate. We are also conducting energy assessments to identify further energy efficiency ventures at facilities across the United States.
With each project, our teams continue to learn valuable lessons that can be leveraged on sustainability initiatives to grow our impact which makes for an exciting future ahead.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Insight Publications.
