Evaluating the Value of the Net Zero Branch

We are in the process of finishing Achieva Credit Union’s first “net zero” branch – a branch in Trinity, Fla., that’s expected to generate as much electricity as it uses, thanks to 72 solar panels on the roof.

This is a concept we are all-in on, as we plan to go net zero in other upcoming standalone branches, even as we realize that the process isn’t simple and carries some unique up-front costs.

So, would this concept be right for your credit union? As you consider that question, there are some key things to think about.

First, let’s talk about the advantages of the net zero approach:

• Long-term, it makes sense financially. At our new 4,000-square-foot branch in Trinity, which is expected to open by November, we anticipate this concept will save us approximately $12,000 a year in electricity costs.
• Building net zero branches sends a positive message to the community. For Achieva, it ties into how we see the credit union as a true community partner that cares about the environment.
• The concept makes the branch distinctive. We have already received some local news coverage of our plans for the branch, since net zero branches are highly unusual in the world of credit unions and banks.

So, if you decide you want to consider building a net zero branch, what are some of the key things to consider?

• Work with an industry professional to learn about the power generation process. This process involves creating your own solar energy, while also using a local power company for electricity at night and on poor weather days, along with installing a backup generator. This can be a rather complex balance that must be planned carefully.
• Take into consideration the need for a battery bank for power storage, which can be costly but may be worth it in the long run. A battery bank is formed by joining two or more batteries together for a single application to store solar or wind energy, and using a battery bank can greatly reduce your branch’s dependence on the power company.
• The building’s architecture may need to be different from your usual branch design. In our case, the decision was made to keep the ceiling design open, giving the branch an industrial look. This plan features offices with open ceilings sheltered within the interior of the branch. After realizing the impact of the required and cosmetic changes to our usual design, we determined that we may need to take additional measures to soundproof the space, ensuring member confidentiality.
• Savings can be higher for credit unions that use specific systems to adjust the use of air conditioning and lighting according to activity at the branch at certain times of day. Again, this may require a higher cost during the construction phase, but a more sophisticated system will help you maximize the savings you can get from solar in the long run.
• It’s important to pay close attention to the model and manufacturer of your solar panels, so you can be sure to pick the panels that will bring you the best results. Every panel is not the same, so make sure you get advice from experts who have seen different types in action.

Another important thing to think about: Your net zero branch should be part of a larger “green” initiative.

As people hear about our new branch, we are frequently asked what other eco-friendly features we are working on and if we plan to address issues such as water usage. (We’ll be using Florida-friendly plants in our landscaping around the building.)

Of course, this is a lot to think about. As credit union operations professionals, we never thought we’d need to be conversant with solar energy. But it’s a fascinating, growing industry, and our board of directors and senior leadership have grown excited about the concept.

We feel it’s important to keep brick-and-mortar locations, since our members say they want a branch nearby even if they don’t go there in person very often. So why not make them distinctive with a unique power source that will match your credit union’s brand as an innovative, modern organization?

That’s how we see it, and we believe that adding the cost of solar panels, hiring an architect that understands solar energy, buying sophisticated energy equipment and thinking through a myriad of details will all be worth it.

Jennifer Galley is COO for the $1.9 billion, 22-branch, 170,000-member Achieva Credit Union based in Dunedin, Fla.