Dominion Expands EnergyShare Weatherization Program in Central Virginia

* New pilot will partner with ElderHomes
* Helps families save money, remain comfortable for years to come
* Previous EnergyShare participants are eligible

Dominion is expanding its EnergyShare weatherization pilot program with a $50,000 donation to fund the addition of energy-saving equipment and materials to homes of previous EnergyShare recipients in central Virginia.

The EnergyShare weatherization pilot started today at the Mechanicsville, Va., home of Margaret Lawrence, whose 1950s brick rancher received additional insulation, new ductwork, fluorescent lighting and a new energy-efficient heating system.

Dominion’s donation was made to ElderHomes to purchase equipment and material to weatherize up to 40 homes in Richmond City and surrounding counties. ElderHomes is a non-profit community development corporation whose mission is to improve the housing and living conditions of low-income, older adults, and persons with disabilities in the greater Richmond area. ElderHomes specialists will install the equipment and make the improvements.

“Now in addition to providing financial help with seasonal heating or cooling bills, Dominion is partnering with the state to provide assistance that will help families stay comfortable and save money for decades,” said Eva T. Hardy, Dominion executive vice president-Public Policy & Corporate Communications. “We expect this pilot to be successful and look to grow this part of the EnergyShare program next year.”

“ElderHomes helps low-income individuals of all ages live safely and independently in their homes, and weatherization is part of the home repair and construction services we offer,” said Lee Householder, chief executive officer. “About 75 percent of our clients are over age 60. The aging population is especially vulnerable during periods of extreme heat or cold, and there is no substitute for the comfort and safety offered by a properly weatherized house.”

Dominion’s contribution will supplement the Virginia Weatherization Assistance Program, which is administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (VDHCD). Each of the homes selected for the pilot program will receive weatherization improvements based on the home’s condition.

VDHCD administers the Virginia Weatherization Assistance Program and allocates funds to local community action agencies, including Area Agencies on Aging and non-profit housing organizations, which administer the program at a local level.

“The donation made by Dominion will allow additional homes to be weatherized this year through the program,” said Bill Shelton, director, Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. “We are pleased to continue our partnership with Dominion and look forward to a continuing relationship in the future.”

In addition to having their homes weatherized, pilot program recipients will receive information on no-cost energy-savings measures.