Despite unprecedented inventory delays resulting from the pandemic, the automotive industry continues to grow. According to the latest Global Automotive Market Report, the industry is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 3.7% from 2020 to 2030, reaching 122.83 million units by 2030. Prior to the pandemic, about 450,825 cars were sold in Texas in 2018, making it the third best-performing state in terms of car sales. Consumers are increasingly making purchasing decisions based on sustainability factors, and it’s challenging auto dealers to look for ways to reduce their carbon footprint to meet the needs and wants of their consumers. While there are many ways auto dealers can reduce their carbon footprint, solar carports have proven to not only reduce energy costs, but are also an effective way to protect valuable inventory. Reduce Inventory Loss with Hail Protection While lowering energy costs is the primary driver for businesses to invest in solar energy, solar carports have unique benefits for auto dealers. According to the 2020 NICB ForeCAST(™) report, Texas was the top state in total hail loss claims from 2017 through 2019, with 637,977 hail loss claims, accounting for 23% of total claims during that period. Most auto dealerships with inventory in open surface lots invest in hail insurance — but that can be costly. One way to protect against hail is with solar carports. With covered inventory, auto dealerships can protect their inventory from hail damage and see savings on their insurance premiums. Rush Enterprises partnered with the Big Sun Community Solar program to offer solar carports at their trucking center in Converse, Texas. With 3,500 solar panels, this is the largest solar carport installation in Texas and provides shade to 181 of their semi-trucks. These carports protect inventory from hail damage, something they experienced in the past. “We always have the threat of hail damage. In 2016, we experienced well over $1 million in damage to our inventory. The solar carports mitigate any of those damages going forward.” said Steve Owens, Regional General Manager, Rush Truck Centers — San Antonio. Why Texas Auto Dealers are Adopting 8
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