How to become an energy auditor

How to become an Energy Auditor

Becoming an energy auditor involves a combination of education, training, hands-on experience, and certifications. Here is a guide to help you pursue a career as an energy auditor:

• Obtain a Relevant Bachelor's Degree: While a bachelor's degree is not always mandatory, having an educational background in fields such as environmental science, engineering, physics, or a related discipline can be advantageous. Many energy auditors hold degrees in areas relevant to energy efficiency and sustainability.
• Gain Practical Experience: Practical experience is crucial in this field. Consider internships, co-op programs, or entry-level positions related to energy efficiency, HVAC systems, or building science. Practical experience provides hands-on knowledge and exposure to real-world energy audit scenarios.
• Pursue Additional Training and Certifications: Enroll in training programs specifically designed for energy auditors. Several organizations, such as the Building Performance Institute (BPI) and the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET), offer certifications that are highly regarded in the industry and demonstrate your expertise in energy auditing. Acquiring professional certifications, like the Certified Energy Manager (CEM) or the Certified Residential Energy Auditor (REA) from the Association of Energy Services Professionals (AESP) are valuable for advancing your career and increasing your marketability.
• Develop Technical Skills: Familiarize yourself with energy auditing tools and software. Learn to use equipment such as blower doors, thermal imaging cameras, and combustion analyzers. Proficiency in energy modeling software and data analysis tools is also essential for conducting accurate energy audits.
• Stay Updated with Industry Trends: Energy efficiency technologies and techniques are continually evolving. Stay informed about the latest developments in building materials, HVAC systems, lighting technologies, and renewable energy solutions. Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences to keep your knowledge up-to-date.
• Obtain Building Analyst Experience (for Residential Auditors): If you are interested in residential energy auditing, gain experience as a Building Analyst. Building Analysts assess residential buildings for energy efficiency, focusing on insulation, air sealing, HVAC systems, and appliances. Practical experience as a building analyst is valuable for residential energy auditors.
• Build a Professional Network: Connect with professionals in the energy auditing field, join industry associations, and attend networking events. Building a strong professional network can provide mentorship opportunities, job leads, and valuable insights into the industry.
• Seek Employment or Start Your Own Business: Look for job opportunities with energy auditing firms, environmental consulting companies, utility companies, or government agencies. Alternatively, consider starting your own energy auditing business. Obtain the necessary licenses and permits, and market your services to potential clients.

Certifications
Energy auditors can obtain various certifications to enhance their skills and credibility. These certifications validate their expertise in energy auditing and demonstrate their commitment to high professional standards.

• Certified Energy Auditor (CEA): Offered by the Association of Energy Services Professionals (AESP), the CEA certification is designed for professionals with a minimum of three years of energy auditing experience. This certification demonstrates expertise in the field and covers a wide range of topics related to energy auditing, including building systems, data analysis, and energy conservation measures.
• Building Performance Institute (BPI) Certifications: BPI offers several certifications related to energy auditing and building performance. The most relevant certifications for energy auditors include:
  BPI Building Analyst (BA): Focuses on residential energy auditing, covering building science, diagnostics, and performance testing.
  BPI Multifamily Building Analyst (MFBA): Specifically for multifamily buildings, this certification addresses energy auditing in residential complexes.
• Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) Certifications: RESNET provides certifications for professionals involved in residential energy auditing and home energy ratings. The key certification is the Home Energy Rater (HERS) certification, which demonstrates expertise in evaluating residential energy performance and conducting energy audits.
• Certified Energy Manager (CEM): Offered by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE), the CEM certification is suitable for professionals involved in energy auditing, management, and efficiency projects. It covers energy auditing techniques, energy analysis, and energy conservation measures. Candidates typically need a combination of education, experience, and passing the certification exam.
• Certified Residential Energy Auditor (REA): The REA certification is offered by the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET). It is designed for professionals working in residential energy auditing and covers topics such as building science, diagnostics, and energy efficiency measures. The certification process involves training, an exam, and field experience verification.
• LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) with Building Design + Construction (BD+C) Specialization: Offered by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), this certification is suitable for energy auditors interested in sustainable building practices. While not specifically an energy auditing certification, LEED AP BD+C professionals have expertise in energy-efficient building design and construction, making it relevant for those working in energy auditing within the context of green building projects.
• Certified Home Energy Auditor (CHEA): Offered by the Building Performance Association, the CHEA certification is designed for professionals conducting home energy audits. It covers building science principles, diagnostics, and energy efficiency improvements.