Top 11 Energy Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for energy engineers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and experience that employers look for when hiring. Certifications provide proof that an engineer has the qualifications and skills necessary to perform the job successfully. They also show potential employers that an engineer is committed to their profession, has kept up with industry advancements, and is knowledgeable about safety procedures. The certifications also serve as a way to differentiate one energy engineer from another when competing for jobs, as they indicate a certain level of expertise and commitment to the field.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Energy Engineers and explains how they can help to advance an energy engineer's career.

What are Energy Engineer Certifications?

Energy engineer certification is a type of professional certification that recognizes individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to assess, design, and implement energy efficient solutions in buildings. This certification is typically awarded by organizations such as the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE), which offers various levels of certifications for energy engineers.

Energy engineer certification can be an invaluable asset for those looking to advance their careers in the field of energy efficiency. It provides employers with a reliable indication that the individual has the skills and competencies necessary to effectively assess energy efficiency measures, develop cost-effective solutions, and implement them properly. Additionally, holding an AEE certification demonstrates a commitment to keeping up with industry trends and best practices in order to provide quality services to clients.

Having an AEE certification can also open up additional opportunities for career advancement within the field of energy engineering. For example, certified professionals may be eligible for higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts or may be able to take on more advanced roles in their organization. Furthermore, having this certification allows individuals to participate in professional networks where they can exchange ideas and information about energy efficiency projects with other professionals in their field.

Pro Tip: When considering energy engineer certification, look for programs accredited by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). The AEE is a leading authority in the field and can provide an assurance of quality for your certification program.

Related: What does an Energy Engineer do?

Top 11 Energy Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Energy Engineers today.

1. Certified Energy Manager (CEM)

A Certified Energy Manager (CEM) is a professional certification awarded by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). CEMs are trained professionals who specialize in energy efficiency, conservation, and management. They have expertise in analyzing energy systems, developing strategies for improving their efficiency, and implementing cost-effective solutions.

The CEM program consists of two parts: a written exam and an experience-based application process. The written exam tests knowledge of energy management principles and practices. It is administered by the AEE at testing centers around the world. The experience-based application requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in energy management through project work or other activities related to energy management.

The CEM program typically takes six months to complete. Applicants must first complete the written exam, then submit their application with supporting documentation such as job descriptions or project reports that demonstrate their experience in energy management. Once approved, applicants must attend a two-day training seminar before they can take the final exam and become certified.

The cost of becoming a CEM varies depending on your location, but typically ranges from $1,000-$2,500 USD including registration fees for the written exam and training seminar as well as any additional materials needed for the application process.

2. Certified Energy Auditor (CEA)

A Certified Energy Auditor (CEA) is a professional who has been trained to assess the energy efficiency of buildings and identify ways to reduce energy consumption. The CEA designation is issued by the Building Performance Institute, Inc. (BPI).

It typically takes 3-5 months to complete the training and certification process for a CEA. To become certified, individuals must first complete an approved BPI training program and pass both a written and field exam. Once certified, individuals must maintain their certification by completing continuing education courses every three years.

The cost of becoming a CEA varies depending on the type of training program chosen, but can range from $1,000 - $3,000. Costs may also include additional fees for exams and continuing education courses.

3. Professional Engineer (PE)

Professional Engineer (PE) is a designation used by engineers who have met certain qualifications and passed the necessary examinations to become licensed in their field. The PE designation is awarded by state boards, and it indicates that an engineer has the knowledge, experience, and skills necessary to practice engineering at a professional level.

It typically takes four or five years of experience in engineering before an individual can be eligible to take the PE exam. This experience must include a minimum of four years of progressive responsibility under the supervision of a Professional Engineer. In addition, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in engineering from an accredited institution.

In order to get the PE designation, applicants must pass two exams: the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam. The FE exam is taken during college or shortly after graduation while the PE exam is taken after gaining work experience as an engineer.

The cost for taking both exams varies depending on the state board but generally ranges between $400-$600 USD per exam.

4. Certified Building Commissioning Professional (CBCP)

Certified Building Commissioning Professional (CBCP) is a certification program offered by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of building commissioning. The CBCP certification is based on an examination that tests an individual’s understanding of the principles, processes, and practices related to commissioning buildings.

The CBCP exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as energy efficiency, building systems, HVAC systems, indoor air quality, lighting systems, and more. To become certified, applicants must pass the exam with a score of at least 70%.

The cost for taking the CBCP exam is $450 for AEE members and $550 for non-members. The exam can be taken online or in person at one of AEE's testing centers. It typically takes about three hours to complete the exam.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also have at least two years of experience in building commissioning or related fields in order to qualify for certification. Applicants must also submit proof of their experience through references or other documentation.

Once certified, individuals are required to maintain their certification by completing continuing education credits every two years.

5. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP)

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accredited Professional (LEED AP) is a professional certification program offered by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). The LEED AP credential demonstrates an individual’s knowledge of green building practices and expertise in the LEED rating system.

It typically takes between 8-12 weeks to get LEED AP certification, depending on the individual's prior experience and education. To become certified, individuals must pass an exam administered by GBCI, which covers topics such as energy efficiency, water conservation, materials selection, indoor air quality, and green building design principles.

The cost of becoming a LEED AP varies depending on the type of exam taken; however, it typically ranges from $200 to $500 for the exam fee alone. Additional costs may include study materials or prep courses.

6. Certified Sustainable Development Professional (CSDP)

Certified Sustainable Development Professional (CSDP) is a certification program designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful leaders in sustainable development. It is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates a commitment to the field of sustainability and provides evidence of expertise in sustainable development.

The CSDP program consists of two parts: an online course and an on-site assessment. The online course covers topics such as environmental management systems, climate change, energy efficiency, green building, renewable energy, and sustainable business practices. The on-site assessment includes a written exam and practical exercises which assess the candidate’s ability to apply the knowledge gained from the online course.

In order to receive the CSDP certification, candidates must complete both parts of the program within one year. Candidates must also pass both parts with a score of at least 70%.

The cost for taking part in the CSDP program depends on where you are located and what type of institution you are taking it through. Generally speaking, it costs between $500 - $1000 USD for tuition fees plus any additional costs associated with travel or accommodation if necessary.

7. Certified Efficiency Analyst (CEA)

Certified Efficiency Analyst (CEA) is a certification program offered by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). It is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze energy efficiency opportunities in buildings, processes, and systems. The CEA certification program consists of three parts: an online course, a proctored exam, and a practical experience requirement.

The online course covers topics such as energy auditing principles, building systems and components, energy conservation measures, energy management strategies, and financial analysis. This course takes approximately 30 hours to complete.

The proctored exam is administered at AEE-approved testing centers throughout the world. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test the candidate’s knowledge of energy efficiency principles. Candidates must score at least 70% on the exam in order to pass.

The practical experience requirement consists of two years of professional experience in the field of energy efficiency or related fields. Candidates must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience in order to be eligible for certification.

The cost for the CEA certification program varies depending on location but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD.

8. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers Certification (ASHRAE CxP)

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Certification Program (CxP) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of HVAC/R. The program is designed to provide a comprehensive assessment of an individual's knowledge and skills in the areas of design, installation, commissioning, operation and maintenance of HVAC/R systems.

The CxP certification consists of two parts: the written examination and the practical demonstration. The written examination consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as system design principles, equipment selection criteria, installation procedures, commissioning processes, operation and maintenance practices. The practical demonstration requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to install, operate and maintain an HVAC/R system.

The certification process typically takes between three and six months to complete depending on the individual's experience level. To become certified, applicants must first submit an application with all required documentation including proof of education or experience in the field. After submitting their application, applicants will be sent an invitation to take the written examination. Once they have successfully passed the written exam they will then be invited to take part in a practical demonstration at an approved facility.

The cost for ASHRAE CxP certification varies depending on several factors such as number of exams taken and country where the applicant resides. Generally speaking however, it can cost anywhere from $400 - $800 USD for both parts of the certification process.

9. Certified Power Quality Professional (CPQP)

Certified Power Quality Professional (CPQP) is a professional certification that recognizes an individual’s expertise in the field of power quality. It is issued by the International Association for Power Quality (IAPQ), an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and advancing power quality education and certification.

To become a CPQP, candidates must have at least three years of experience in the field of power quality and must pass two written examinations: a general knowledge exam and a specialized power quality exam. The exams are offered twice per year, usually in April and October.

The cost of taking the exams is $400 USD for both exams, or $200 USD for each exam if taken separately. The fee includes registration fees, examination materials, and access to study resources.

Once certified, CPQPs are required to maintain their certification through continuing education credits every three years. This can be done through attending conferences or workshops on power quality topics, participating in webinars or seminars related to power quality, or completing online courses related to power quality topics.

10. International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol Certification (IPMVP CxP)

The International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol (IPMVP) Certification (CxP) is a certification program offered by the International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol Organization (IPMVPO). The IPMVP CxP is an internationally recognized certification that provides assurance that performance measurement and verification professionals have the skills, knowledge, and experience required to perform their duties effectively. It also provides assurance that they are knowledgeable about the IPMVP framework, which is a globally accepted standard for measuring energy savings in buildings.

The IPMVP CxP certification consists of three levels: Level 1 Certified Professional (CP), Level 2 Certified Energy Manager (CEM), and Level 3 Certified Performance Measurement & Verification Professional (CPMV). Each level requires different levels of training, experience, and knowledge. To obtain any of these certifications, applicants must pass an online exam administered by the IPMVPO.

In order to be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least two years of professional experience in energy efficiency or performance measurement and verification, as well as a minimum of 40 hours of approved training related to energy efficiency or performance measurement and verification.

It typically takes between six months to one year from start to finish to get certified through the IPMVP CxP program. The cost for each level of certification varies depending on the country in which you are located; however, it generally ranges from $400-$1,000 USD per level.

11. Renewable Energy Professional Certification Program (REPCP).

The Renewable Energy Professional Certification Program (REPCP) is a comprehensive certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved the highest standards of knowledge and expertise in the renewable energy industry. The program is administered by the Renewable Energy Professional Certification Board (REPB), an independent, non-profit organization that sets the standards for professional certification in this field.

The REPCP requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in renewable energy through a combination of education, training, and practical experience. Applicants must complete a series of courses covering topics such as solar photovoltaics, wind power, energy storage, and energy efficiency. They must also pass a written exam and complete an approved internship or apprenticeship program.

The REPCP typically takes two years to complete, although some applicants may be able to finish it sooner depending on their prior experience. To get started, applicants must submit an application form and pay a fee of $200. This fee covers the cost of course materials and administrative costs associated with the program. After completing all requirements for certification, applicants will receive their certificate from the REPB.

The cost of getting certified through the REPCP varies depending on how quickly you are able to complete it. In addition to the $200 application fee, you will need to pay for any additional course materials or training required for completion of your certification. Depending on your individual circumstances, these costs can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars.

Do You Really Need a Energy Engineer Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need an energy engineer certificate to work in the energy industry. However, if you want to be successful and have a fulfilling career in the energy engineering field, having a certificate can help.

Energy engineers are responsible for designing, constructing, and maintaining systems that allow us to use energy efficiently. They must have a deep understanding of how different systems interact with each other and how they affect the environment. These systems include power plants, solar panels, wind turbines, and more. Having an energy engineer certificate can help demonstrate your expertise in this field to potential employers and make you stand out from other applicants.

Additionally, having a certificate can give you access to resources such as conferences, workshops, seminars, and networking events that are not available without it. This can help you stay up-to-date on the latest trends in the industry and gain valuable insight from professionals in the field. These opportunities may also lead to job offers or internships with top companies in the energy industry.

Finally, having an energy engineer certificate gives you credibility when applying for jobs or certification programs. It shows potential employers that you have taken the time to learn about the subject matter and understand what it takes to succeed as an energy engineer. It also demonstrates that you are committed to pursuing a career in this field and are willing to invest time and effort into becoming an expert in your chosen specialty.

In conclusion, while having an energy engineer certificate is not required for working in this field, it can be beneficial if you want to take your career further or get ahead of other applicants when applying for jobs or certification programs.

Related: Energy Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Energy Engineer Certifications

1. What are the requirements for an energy engineer certification?

Answer: Generally, energy engineers must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in engineering, with a focus on energy-related subjects such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer. In addition, some certifications require additional coursework or professional experience in the field of energy engineering.

2. Are there different levels of energy engineer certification?

Answer: Yes, there are several different levels of certification available for energy engineers. These include Certified Energy Manager (CEM), Certified Energy Auditor (CEA), and Professional Engineer (PE).

3. What is the best way to prepare for an energy engineer certification exam?

Answer: The best way to prepare for an energy engineer certification exam is to take courses related to energy engineering and review relevant material covered on the exam. Additionally, practicing with sample questions can help build confidence and identify areas that need further study.

4. How long is an energy engineer certification valid?

Answer: Most certifications are valid for three years from the date of issue and must be renewed every three years by taking continuing education classes or passing a recertification exam.

5. What are the benefits of becoming certified as an Energy Engineer?

Answer: Becoming certified as an Energy Engineer can open up more job opportunities and provide credibility when applying for positions in the industry. Additionally, it can demonstrate commitment to professional development and enhance career prospects in the field of energy engineering.