Raleigh, September 25, 2018 – Highwoods Properties has reached a sustainability milestone as it celebrates 40 years of service in commercial real estate. The company achieved ENERGY STAR certification for 94 office properties in 2018, representing a little over 80 percent of all eligible square footage across the portfolio.

ENERGY STAR-certified buildings perform in the top 25 percent of similar facilities nationwide for energy efficiency and meet strict energy efficiency performance levels set by the EPA. These buildings use, on average, 35 percent less energy than typical buildings and also release 35 percent less carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

“We’ve been able to improve energy performance by managing energy strategically across the entire portfolio through our advanced utility monitoring program LiveMeter and by making cost-effective improvements to buildings through our standard practice of ‘Highwoodtizing,’” said Mike Starchville, Senior Vice President of Asset Management.

In addition to aesthetics, “Highwoodtizing” (in development and existing space) might include a series of system upgrades, such as the installation of LED lights, energy-efficient chillers, Energy Management Systems, variable speed drives and efficient plumbing. In the Buckhead area of Atlanta, Highwoods saw a 25 percent decrease in energy consumption and a 30 percent higher ENERGY STAR score at One Alliance Center after purchasing and “Highwoodtizing” the office property in 2013.

"For Highwoods, it’s not about recognition,” said Starchville. “It’s about our commitment to environmental stewardship and lowering energy costs for all stakeholders.”

Since 2015, Highwoods has seen an 8 percent reduction in energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions companywide using a same property comparison.

To learn more about the Highwoods sustainability program, visit http://www.highwoods.com/we-provide-service/sustainability.