Certified Energy Auditor Exam for Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) Latest Update

Certified Energy Auditor Exam for Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) Latest Update

The Certified Energy Auditor (CEA®) credential, offered by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE), is a globally recognized certification that validates an individual's expertise in evaluating and analyzing energy use within facilities. CEAs are proficient in identifying energy conservation opportunities and providing recommendations to optimize energy consumption. This certification is essential for professionals aiming to enhance their credibility and demonstrate their commitment to energy efficiency and management practices.

Body of Knowledge (BoK) Update

In February 2021, AEE implemented a comprehensive update to the CEA Body of Knowledge to align with the evolving competencies required of energy auditors worldwide. This revision was the result of a meticulous Job Task Analysis conducted by a committee of seventeen subject matter experts from various regions. The analysis identified critical domains, tasks, knowledge, and skills essential for CEAs. The updated BoK is organized into twelve knowledge areas, expanding from the previous ten, to encompass a broader and more detailed scope of energy auditing practices.

The twelve knowledge areas include:

1. Developing an Energy Audit Strategy & Plan
2. Energy Use Analysis
3. Data Collection & Analysis
4. Economic Analysis
5. Lighting Systems
6. Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning Systems
7. Domestic Hot Water Systems
8. Motors and Drives & Compressed Air Systems
9. Building Envelope
10. Building Automation Systems (BAS), Process Automation Systems (PAS), and Energy Management and Control Systems (EMCS)
11. Alternative Generation & Storage
12. Transport

These areas ensure that CEAs possess comprehensive knowledge applicable across various practice settings globally. The BoK aligns with industry best practices and accreditation standards, reinforcing the certification's relevance and credibility.

Training Programs

To prepare candidates for the CEA exam, AEE offers several training options:

• On-Demand Training: This program provides over 27 hours of pre-recorded sessions led by multiple instructors. Participants receive an electronic copy of the workbook to aid in exam preparation. The on-demand format offers flexibility, allowing candidates to learn at their own pace. Additionally, a monthly live Q&A session is available to address any questions.

  AEE Education: Home

• Live Training Programs: AEE schedules live training sessions throughout the year. For instance, upcoming programs include:

  • January 27-31, 2025
  • March 3-7, 2025
  • May 19-22, 2025

These sessions provide interactive learning experiences with expert instructors, covering the comprehensive CEA curriculum.

Certification Process

Achieving the CEA certification involves several steps:

1. Eligibility: Candidates must meet specific educational and professional experience requirements. Details on eligibility criteria are available on AEE's official website.

   AEE Center

2. Training: Completion of an approved preparatory seminar is mandatory before sitting for the certification exam. This ensures candidates are well-prepared and familiar with the exam content.

   Association of Energy Engineers

3. Application: Submission of a detailed application, including documentation of education and work experience, is required.

   AEE Center

4. Examination: Candidates must pass the CEA exam, which assesses knowledge across the twelve domains outlined in the BoK.

   Association of Energy Engineers

5. Certification: Upon successful completion of the exam and meeting all requirements, candidates are awarded the CEA certification, signifying their expertise in energy auditing.

Global Recognition and Accreditation

The CEA certification is internationally recognized and holds several accreditations:

• ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB): The CEA program is accredited by ANAB, adhering to the International Standard ANSI/ISO/IEC 17024, which is esteemed within the industry as the pinnacle of personnel certification accreditation.

  AEE Center

• U.S. Department of Energy (DOE): The CEA is the first recognized program under the Better Buildings Workforce Guidelines, developed in collaboration between the DOE and the commercial energy performance industry to certify a highly skilled workforce.

  AEE Center

• International Recognition: The CEA certification meets the criteria of an energy auditor under various international standards, including the ASHRAE Standard 211-2018 for Commercial Building Energy Audits. It is also recognized by the UK's Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) and Ireland's Energy Audit Scheme, among others.

  AEE Center

Conclusion

The Certified Energy Auditor (CEA®) certification by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) represents a significant credential for professionals dedicated to energy efficiency and management. The recent updates to the Body of Knowledge ensure that CEAs are equipped with the most current and comprehensive knowledge required in the dynamic field of energy auditing. With various training options and global recognition, the CEA certification offers a robust pathway for professionals to validate their expertise and advance their careers in energy auditing.