Contact:

Joy Waring
Director of Leasing and Customer Care
Woodard Properties
434.971.8860

Rose Jenkins
Communications Specialist
Piedmont Environmental Council
434.977.2033

Woodard Properties Announces Support for Energy Smart Solutions Program

(Charlottesville, Virginia - January 26, 2010): Woodard Properties announced today it will implement the Energy Smart Solutions program to improve energy efficiency in its Charlottesville area rental housing portfolio, helping each of its residents save on energy costs.

The Energy Smart Solutions program, developed by the Piedmont Environmental Council, includes a six page guide that has been mailed to every homeowner and renter in the Charlottesville area, detailing 10 simple "do it yourself" projects that can save a typical household nearly 20%, at a cost of only about $500. The companion website www.energysmartsolutions.org includes a series of short "how-to" videos and related information on tax credits, energy audits and other topics. Local retailers are also offering discounts on project materials - available through the Energy Smart Solutions site.

"By making our rental units more energy efficient and reducing utility costs, we are providing additional value for our residents," said Keith Woodard. "It's a common sense program that is consistent with our commitment to providing a diverse range of environmentally conscious rental properties."

Woodard Properties will be implementing Energy Smart Solutions in over 350 units across more than 70 locations over the next two years. In addition to actions such as upgrading insulation and adding programmable thermostats, Woodard Properties will also provide new residents with checklists, instructional manuals, and tips. Woodard Properties already has adopted key steps such as changing furnace filters and using compact florescent lighting in public spaces.

"Rental housing is a large share of the total market locally, and energy efficiency improvements in that sector require the landlords and owners of the properties to take initiative," said Scott Elliff, PEC Board member who has been leading the Energy Smart Solutions initiative. "Renters are increasingly looking at utility costs as a factor in deciding where to live, and we are pleased that Woodard Properties recognizes the value of making these energy efficiency improvements."