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I. About ASHRAE 1
ASHRAE does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national or ethnic origin in its
policies, procedures, or eligibility requirements for its programs.
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Over 2,750 ASHRAE certifications have been earned in these key built-environment fields: Energy Assessment
l Energy Modeling l Commissioning l Healthcare Facility Design l High-Performance Building Design l Building
Operations. Recognized by over 35 national, state and local government bodies, ASHRAE certifications increasingly
have become the must-have credential for built-environment professionals, employers and building owners.
ANSI Accreditation
The BEAP certification is an ANSI accredited certification program to help ensure quality.
For more than 100 years, ASHRAE resources have earned respect worldwide. The BEAP certification
serves to reinforce that reputation.
Disclaimer of Warranty
ASHRAE does not warrant that this program or its examination certifies a candidate’s technical competence or
technical ability to design any part of the HVAC&R system. Furthermore, nothing about this program or its examination
is intended to replace, override, or conflict with licensing requirements for design engineers, architects, or other
building professionals.
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II. BEAP Certification Eligibility & Application
Who Can Participate
Participation in the ASHRAE BEAP program requires that an applicant meet education and work experience eligibility
requirements and successfully complete the program’s examination. Membership in ASHRAE is not a prerequisite to
participate in the program.
Note: candidates must schedule and take the examination within 90 days of approval.
Degree in Engineering or five or six year Architecture Degree 3 years’ experience in energy auditing*
Four year science, technology, math degree or four year architecture degree 4 years’ experience in energy auditing*
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a. Visit job sites to collect data for energy conservation analyses.
b. Evaluate construction design information like drawings, design calculations, system layouts, and sketches.
c. Evaluate energy systems including heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), lighting and other building/
industrial mechanical systems.
d. Monitor and analyze energy consumption patterns and provide benchmarking analysis.
e. Identify potential energy saving measures along with constructability requirements.
f. Perform energy modeling or other energy calculation.
g. Verify energy bills and meter readings.
h. Prepare a report of the findings.
4. Code of Ethics
As a condition of earning and maintaining certification, applicants for the Building Energy Auditor certification must
agree to uphold and abide by a Code of Ethics, the tenets of which are set forth as follows:
The exam blueprints for the BEAP examination are provided in Appendix A and Appendix B.
The three cognitive levels tested on the BEAP examination are as follows:
Please review sections V. “Examination” and VI. “Scheduling an Examination” of the BEAP Candidate Guidebook for
additional related information.
Application Fees
ASHRAE Member: $395.00; Nonmember: $545.00
ASHRAE Member Exam Retake: $175.00; Nonmember: $225.00
ASHRAE Member Second Exam Retake $395.00; Nonmember $545.00
If an application is declined by ASHRAE or cancelled by the applicant, the amount of the fee, less $50 to cover
administrative costs, will be refunded to the applicant. Once an examination appointment has been made, candidates
may not cancel their application.
ASHRAE retains the right to audit any and all applications at any time. If, at any time, the application information
submitted is found to be inaccurate, the certification will be revoked, or examination results may be delayed or voided.
In such cases, the application fee will not be refunded.
Candidate Responsibilities
Each candidate for ASHRAE Building Energy Assessment Professional certification is responsible for the following:
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III. Examination
Examination Preparation
Neither participating in a preparatory activity nor purchasing a publication is a requirement for participating in the
BEAP program or for enrolling to take the BEAP examination. However, candidates who choose to participate in
preparatory activities or to purchase publications are responsible for ensuring that the timing of the activity or purchase
aligns with the timing of the examination session for which the candidate has enrolled.
Resources available to help prepare for the BEAP examination include, but are not limited to, the following:
ASHRAE does not warrant that participation in or use of any of the above resources will guarantee successful
completion of the examination. Nor does ASHRAE warrant that all information presented in all of the above resources
is non-contradictory. However, ASHRAE will do its best to avoid testing contradictory, out-of-date, or inaccurate
information.
Score Report
All examinees receive a Score Report, which indicates a “Pass” or “Did Not Pass” result and a numerical score. U.S.
examinees receive a paper Score Report immediately following the examination. Within five business days of taking
their exam, international computer-based examinees will receive email notification from PSI Services, ASHRAE’s exam
delivery partner, that a hard copy Score Report has been mailed via U.S. mail and that an unofficial Score Report is
available for download. Pencil-and-paper examinees will receive such email notification within 4-6 weeks of taking
their exam.
Successful Examinees
Successful examinees will receive a “Certification Recognition Kit,” which includes a certificate, within six weeks of
their exam, and will be recognized on the ASHRAE website. Scores are not reported over the telephone, by electronic
mail, or by facsimile.
The certificate of certification issued to successful examinees is the sole property of ASHRAE Certification; therefore,
should a certification be suspended or revoked, the certificate shall be returned to ASHRAE Certification.
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Successful examinees agree to the following conditions:
• Inform the Certification Committee, without delay, of matters that can affect their capability to continue to fulfill
the certification requirements, or risk suspension or withdrawal of the certification.
• Make claims regarding “BEAP” certification only within the scope of the “BEAP” certification,
• Not to use the certification in such a manner as to bring ASHRAE certification into disrepute,
• Not to use the certificate in a misleading manner.
Exam Retakes
Examinees who do not pass their exam may retake their exam after a three-month wait period. The fee to apply
to retake an ASHRAE certification examination is discounted at $175 for ASHRAE members and $225 for non-
members. The fee for successive ASHRAE member and nonmember examination retakes will be at the full application
fee amount.
Confidentiality
Information about candidates for testing and their examination results are considered confidential. Studies and reports
concerning candidates will contain no information identifying any candidate, unless authorized by the candidate.
By participating in the BEAP program, each person who earns and maintains this certification agrees to be listed on
the ASHRAE public website. Only those individuals who are active BEAP certificants will be listed on the site.
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U.S. Candidates:
1. Schedule Online: The candidate may schedule an examination appointment online at any time by using the
Online Scheduling service at www.goAMP.com. To use this service, follow these easy steps:
2. Telephone Scheduling: Call PSI, also known as Applied Measurement Professionals (AMP), at 888-519-9901
to schedule an examination appointment. This toll-free number is answered from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (Central
Time) Monday through Thursday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Friday and 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday. AMP
is equipped with Telecommunication Devices for the Deaf (TDD) to assist deaf and hearing-impaired candidates.
TDD calling is available 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Central Time) Monday through Friday at 913-895-4637. This
TDD phone option is for individuals who have compatible TDD machinery.
International Candidates
If special accommodations are being requested, please submit a Request for Special Examination Accommodations
form prior to contacting PSI/AMP at 888-519-9901 to schedule your examination.
The examinations are administered only by appointment Monday through Saturday. Individuals are scheduled on a first-
come, first-served basis. Refer to the chart below for scheduling information.
Monday Wednesday
Tuesday Thursday
Wednesday Friday/Saturday
Thursday Monday
Friday Tuesday
When the appointment is made, the applicant will be given a time to report to the Test Center. An email confirming
the date, time and location will be sent by PSI to scheduled exam candidates. The candidate will be allowed to take
only the examination for which the appointment has been made. No changes in examination type will be made at the
Assessment Center. UNSCHEDULED CANDIDATES (WALK-INS) WILL NOT BE ADMITTED to the Test Center.
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Test Center Locations
Examinations are administered by computer at more than 300 Test Center locations in over 40 countries. Test Center
locations, detailed maps and directions are available on the website, www.goAMP.com.
Holidays
No exams will be scheduled or administered on these United States holidays.
2. Candidates with visual, sensory, or physical disabilities that would prevent them from taking the examination
under standard conditions may request special accommodations and arrangements.
Verification of the disability and a statement of the specific type of assistance needed must be made in writing to
PSI/AMPat least 45 calendar days prior to the desired examination date. Please inform of the need for special
accommodations when scheduling the examination.
Tuesday Thursday
Wednesday Friday
Thursday Monday
Friday Tuesday
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The first reschedule request with a two-day notice will be free; any additional reschedules will be at the full certification
application fee. A candidate who wishes to reschedule their examination appointment, but fails to contact PSI at least
two business days prior to the scheduled date, will forfeit the certification application fee and must reapply to sit for
the examination.
Likewise, exam candidates who are absent for their scheduled examination appointment will forfeit the certification
application fee and must reapply to sit for the examination.
Requesting an Extension
A candidate can extend the 90-day deadline for scheduling and taking an exam by emailing
certification@ashrae.org at least two business days prior to the end of the 90-day deadline. ASHRAE will provide an
extension of up to 45 days.
In order for PSI/AMP to be able to reschedule an exam missed due to sudden illness, exam candidates must provide a
doctor’s note. Examination absences due to work commitments may not be rescheduled, nor will they be refunded.
Candidates may contact the Weather Hotline at 800-380-5416 (24 hours/day) or visit www.goAMP.com and select
“Candidates” prior to the examination to determine if it has been advised that any Test Centers are closed.
Employment ID cards, student ID cards, and any type of temporary identification may be acceptable as secondary
identification. Candidates are prohibited from misrepresenting their identities or falsifying information to obtain
admission to the testing room.
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Security
ASHRAE and PSI maintain examination administration and security standards that are designed to ensure that all
candidates are provided the same opportunity to demonstrate their abilities.
• No cameras, notes, tape recorders, pagers, or cellular/smart phones are allowed in the testing room.
• You are encouraged to bring a non-programmable scientific calculator for the BEAP examination. Only silent,
non-programmable calculators are permitted but they will not be provided for you.
• No guests, visitors, or family members are allowed in the testing room or reception areas.
• No personal items, valuables, or weapons are allowed in the testing room. Only keys and wallets may be taken
into the testing room and securely stored in the soft locker provided at the Test Center. You are responsible for
items left in other areas.
• Candidates may be subjected to a metal detection scan upon entering the examination room.
• No personal belongings will be allowed in the testing room. Use of a cellular/smart phone or other electronic
device is strictly prohibited and will result in dismissal from the examination.
• You will be provided with scratch paper and a pencil to use during the examination. You must sign and return the
scratch paper to the supervisor at the completion of testing, or you will not receive a score report. No documents
or notes of any kind may be removed from the examination room. If you need a second piece of scratch paper,
you need to ask the test proctor for another piece of paper and turn in the one you used before.
• PSI/AMP will provide U.S. examinees with ear plugs. International and pencil-and-paper examinees may bring
their own earplugs, though the proctor will need to inspect them.
• No questions concerning the content of the examination may be asked during the examination.
• Eating, drinking, or smoking will not be permitted in the testing room.
• You may take a break whenever you wish, but you will not be allowed additional time to make up for time lost
during breaks.
Misconduct
Individuals who engage in any of the following types of conduct, either in the testing room or during a break, may
be dismissed from the examination, their scores will not be reported, and their application fees will not be refunded.
Examples of misconduct are when a candidate does the following:
Computer-based Testing
Upon signing in, computer-based testing candidates will be directed to a testing carrel. You will be instructed on-
screen to enter your identification number. Your photograph will remain on screen throughout your examination
session. This photograph will also print on your Score Report.
Prior to attempting the certification examination, you will be given the opportunity to practice taking practice
questions on the computer. The time you use for these practice questions is NOT counted as part of your certification
examination time or result. When you are comfortable with the computer testing process, you may quit the practice
session and begin the timed examination.
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Certification Examination Tips
The practice questions should prepare you to navigate through the through the computer-based certification exam.
Here are a few additional points to remember:
• Only one examination question is presented at a time. You may change your answer as many times as you wish
during the examination time limit.
• If more than one answer seems correct, choose the best answer.
• Be sure to answer all questions, and bookmark the ones you want to double check later.
• Monitor your time.
Candidate Feedback
During the examination, candidates are permitted to submit online comments on any question. Comments will be
reviewed, but individual responses will not be provided.
At the conclusion of their exam, computer-based testing candidates will be invited to complete a “Facility
Questionnaire.” Pencil-and-paper examinees wishing to complete the “Facility Questionnaire,” however, must do so
during the alloted examination time.
Deadlines
The renewal deadline is December 31 of the third year of certification. For example, a Certificant who earns a
certification in 2017 will have a recertification deadline of December 31, 2020.
The certification of individuals who fail to submit renewal fees and a completed application by the December 31
deadline will expire. Individuals with expired certifications will be advised to cease using the specific certification
designation after their names. The names of non-renewing Certificants will be removed from the list of Certificants on
the ASHRAE website.
Non-renewing Certificants, however, may recertify during the three-month grace period from January 1 through March
31 immediately following the expiration of their certification. To do so, they must submit a completed recertification
application.
Note: during the three-month grace period, PDHs may not be earned and applied toward the previous three-year
certification period. After March 31, the grace period will conclude, non-renewing Certificants will no longer be able
to renew their certification and the only way to regain the certification will be to reapply for certification and pass
the certification examination. Extenuating circumstances, however, will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the
Certification Committee.
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Completing and Submitting the Application
To be eligible for renewal, BEAP Certificants must submit a completed application, which documents on the
application to having met eligibility requirements, together with an application fee. Within a week of receiving an
application, ASHRAE will notify the applicant by email either of acceptance and approval of the application or of denial
of approval and the reason thereof.
1. Audits: Up to five additional audits at five points per audit (maximum 25 PDHs). Must lead, supervise, or
participate in these audits.
2. Continuing Education (CE): CE is a process used by certified persons to maintain and advance their
competency. CE includes education/training received and education/training given and may be obtained from
several sources, including:
• In-service training—up to 3 PDHs
• Webinars—1 PDH per hour of attendance; 2 PDHs per hour as presenter
• College Credit (traditional or online)—10 PDHs per college credit
• Self-directed Learning—up to 3 PDHs
• Conference Presentation—1 PDH per hour of attendance; 2 PDHs per hour as presenter for the first
presentation, then 1 PDH per hour for subsequent equivalent presentations
• Workshops—1 PDH per hour of attendance; 2 PDHs per hour as presenter for the first presentation, then 1
point per hour for subsequent equivalent presentations
3. Regulatory work: Participation in development or maintenance of a state or ANSI standard related to energy
auditing. Participation includes attending meetings, official review, and/or appointment as a committee member.
Includes regulatory compliance analysis (i.e., energy modeling for 90.1 Title 24 or 189.1) and support lent to
legislation/regulation for support of energy auditing (not lobbying)—up to 20 PDHs.
4. Retesting: Meet the current qualifications for and pass the certification exam: 50 PDHs.
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5. Contributing to the Building Energy Auditor Certification: Includes participation in Job Task Analysis (JTA)
study, item writing, item review, and passing score study—up to 25 PDHs from the following activities:
• Participation in JTA—8 CEs per day
• Item Writing—8 CEs per day; 1 CE for every hour of webinar or remote writing
• Item Review—8 CEs per day; 1 CE for every hour of webinar or remote review
• Passing Score Study—8 CEs per day; 1 CE for every hour of webinar or remote participation.
6. Publications: Must be related to the industry, which is defined as MEP systems, lighting, renewable energy,
and other building services and systems as they pertain to efficient use of energy and water: Up to 20 PDHs —
PDHs are awarded per publication as follows:
• Published conference or technical paper; must be peer reviewed and published—10 PDHs.
• Providing a review of conference or technical paper; electronic or written confirmation of completed
review—1 PDH.
• Author a book, manual or guideline that is published; applies to describing energy efficiency or calculation
methods. Credit is awarded at the time of publication—20 PDHs
• Journal, bulletin, or magazine article—10 PDHs for peer reviewed; 5 PDHs for non-peer reviewed
• Whitepaper or position paper; may be digitally published and distributed. Provide documentation of delivery
method—5 PDHs.
• User’s Manual for industry standards; contributing to User’s Manual as author or peer reviewer—5 PDHs.
• Author or co-author for chapter of technical handbook; credit is awarded when published—2 PDHs.
• Review of a technical handbook chapter; credit is awarded when review is completed—1 PDH.
4. Code of Ethics
Applicants must agree to uphold and abide by a Code of Ethics, the tenets of which are set forth as follows:
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Application Fees
On-time Discount (Application Received by Dec. 31)
ASHRAE Member: $195.00; Nonmember: $295.00
If an application is declined by ASHRAE, the amount of the fee, less $50 to cover administrative costs, will be
refunded to the applicant.
ASHRAE retains the right to audit at any time the recertification applications of renewed certificants. In such cases,
certificants will be requested to provide supporting documentation of PDHs earned. Acceptable documentation may
be a certificate of workshop completion, a copy of a publication or a college transcript. In the event the renewed
certificant is unable to document having earned 50 acceptable PDHs, the renewed certification will be revoked and
the recertification application fee will not be refunded.
Candidate Responsibilities
Each candidate for ASHRAE Building Energy Assessment Professional (BEAP) recertification is responsible for the
following:
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Appendix A: BEAP Certification Exam Blueprint
Complexity Level and
Number of Items
Building Energy Assessment Professional
Application
Analysis
TOTALS
Recall
Certification Examination Content Outline
This report was prepared as an account of work sponsored by an agency of the United States government.
Neither the United States government nor any agency thereof, nor any of their employees, makes any warranty,
express or implied, or assumes any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of
any information, apparatus, product, or process disclosed, or represents that its use would not infringe privately
owned rights. Reference herein to any specific commercial product, process, or service by trade name,
trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation,
or favoring by the United States government or any agency thereof or the National Institute of Building Sciences.
The views and opinions of authors expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of the United States
government or any agency thereof or the National Institute of Building Sciences.
This report is available at no cost from the National Institute of Building Sciences Commercial Workforce
Credentialing Council at www.nibs.org/cwcc.
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This report is available at no cost from the National Institute of Building Sciences Commercial Workforce Credentialing
Council at www.nibs.org/cwcc
Acronyms
CHP Combined Heat and Power
PV Photovoltaic
SD Standard deviation
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This report is available at no cost from the National Institute of Building Sciences Commercial Workforce Credentialing
Council at www.nibs.org/cwcc
Table of Contents
1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................... 1
2 Final Building Energy Auditor DACUM Job/Task Analysis .............................................................. 2
2.1 Building Energy Auditor Job Description ....................................................................................... 2
2.2 Job/Task Analysis DACUM Chart for Building Energy Auditor .................................................... 2
3 Examination Blueprint ....................................................................................................................... 22
4 Job Task Analysis and Survey Validation ....................................................................................... 24
4.1 Survey Development...................................................................................................................... 24
4.2 Survey Dissemination .................................................................................................................... 25
5 Results ................................................................................................................................................. 26
5.1 State of Primary Employment ........................................................................................................ 26
5.2 Highest Level of Education ........................................................................................................... 28
5.3 Years of Energy Experience .......................................................................................................... 29
5.4 Years of Energy Auditor Experience ............................................................................................. 30
5.5 Work Sector ................................................................................................................................... 31
6 Post-Survey Conference Call and Webinar ..................................................................................... 32
6.1 Adequacy of Respondent Demographics ....................................................................................... 32
6.2 Job Task Ratings ............................................................................................................................ 32
6.3 Tasks or Knowledge Missing......................................................................................................... 36
6.4 Discussion of Assessment .............................................................................................................. 36
7 Conclusions and Next Steps ............................................................................................................. 37
Appendix A: Energy Auditor Validation Study Survey ......................................................................... 38
Appendix B: List of Write-In Comments ................................................................................................. 51
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List of Figures
Figure 1. Highest level of education ....................................................................................................... 28
Figure 2. Years of energy experience ..................................................................................................... 29
Figure 3. Years of experience specifically as an energy auditor ......................................................... 30
Figure 4. Sector in which respondent works ......................................................................................... 31
List of Tables
Table 1. Duties and Tasks of Building Energy Auditor ........................................................................... 2
Table 2. Areas of Specialized Knowledge Required of Building Energy Auditor................................. 3
Table 3. Areas of Building Systems Knowledge Required of Building Energy Auditor ...................... 4
Table 4. Areas of General Knowledge Required of Building Energy Auditor ....................................... 5
Table 5. Skills and Abilities Required of Building Energy Auditor ........................................................ 7
Table 6. Attitudes Required of Building Energy Auditor ........................................................................ 8
Table 7. Tools, Equipment and Resources Required by Building Energy Auditor .............................. 9
Table 8. Audit Tools Required by Building Energy Auditor ................................................................... 9
Table 9. Standards, Codes, and Guidelines for Building Energy Auditor ........................................... 10
Table 10. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Tools, Equipment, and
Resources Required for Communicating with Stakeholders ....................................................... 12
Table 11. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Tools, Equipment, and
Resources Required for Developing the Action Plan .................................................................... 12
Table 12. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Tools, Equipment, and
Resources ........................................................................................................................................... 14
Required for Conducting Pre-Site Visit Data Collection Activities ...................................................... 14
Table 13. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Tools, Equipment, and
Resources ........................................................................................................................................... 15
Required for Collecting Data On-site ...................................................................................................... 15
Table 14. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Tools, Equipment, and
Resources ........................................................................................................................................... 18
Required for Identifying Opportunities for Improving Building Performance .................................... 18
Table 15. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Tools, Equipment, and
Resources ........................................................................................................................................... 20
Required for Identifying Opportunities for Improving Building Performance .................................... 20
Table 16. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Tools, Equipment, and
Resources ........................................................................................................................................... 21
Required for Producing the Deliverable ................................................................................................. 21
Table 17. Final Proposed Examination Blueprint for Energy Auditor ................................................. 22
Table 18. Summary of Respondent Holistic Ratings ............................................................................. 23
Table 19. List of DACUM JTA Participants ............................................................................................. 24
Table 20. State of Employment of Respondents ................................................................................... 26
Table 21. List of "Other" Write-In Comments ......................................................................................... 27
Table 22. Highest Level of Education ..................................................................................................... 28
Table 23. Years of Energy Experience .................................................................................................... 29
Table 24. Years of Experience Specifically as an Energy Auditor ....................................................... 30
Table 25. Sector in Which Respondent Works ...................................................................................... 31
Table 26. Means, SDs, and SEM of Rating Scale Responses ............................................................... 33
Table 27. Combined Frequency and Importance Scales ...................................................................... 34
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This report is available at no cost from the National Institute of Building Sciences Commercial Workforce Credentialing
Council at www.nibs.org/cwcc
1 Introduction
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), in conjunction with the National Institute
of Building Sciences (NIBS) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), led a study to identify
the critical duties and tasks required of an Energy Auditor. Professional Testing, Inc., used the
DACUM (Developing a Curriculum) process to conduct a Job Task Analysis (JTA) and identify
the competencies.
A panel of subject matter experts (SMEs) was selected by NIBS and convened by Professional
Testing, Inc., for a 3-day meeting held February 3–5, 2014, in Orlando, Florida. The
competencies identified during the meeting were then validated via a survey. This report reflects
the completion and results of the study, and is organized with section 2 containing the proposed
final content outline, and the later sections containing the details of the JTA development
process, including results of the validation survey.
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This report is available at no cost from the National Institute of Building Sciences Commercial Workforce Credentialing
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2 Final Building Energy Auditor DACUM Job/Task
Analysis
2.1 Building Energy Auditor Job Description
The Commercial Building Energy Auditor is an energy solutions professional who assesses
building systems and site conditions; analyzes and evaluates equipment and energy usage; and
recommends strategies to optimize building resource utilization.
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Table 2. Areas of Specialized Knowledge Required of Building Energy Auditor
Areas of Specialized Knowledge
Air compressors Audit processes and tasks
Building automation control systems and
Benchmarking
programming
Building physics Building pressurization
Building systems engineering concepts and
Building sciences
principles (See Table 3)
Components of building and process systems and
Data collection protocols
assemblies
Electrical power systems Energy efficiency measures (EEM) and economics
Energy calculations (e.g. energy modeling) Engineering economics
Financial analysis methodologies and thresholds
General building construction materials
(e.g. life cycle costs analysis, ROI)
Greenhouse gas calculations Heat transfer
Heating and cooling degree days and balance point
Historic building practices
temperature
IEQ Impact of age of building on building systems
Industry accepted standards, codes and guidelines Industry equipment
Industry terminology M&V methodologies
Measurement equipment (current transformers, data
Maintenance procedures and roles
loggers, etc.) and techniques
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Table 3. Areas of Building Systems Knowledge Required of Building Energy Auditor
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Table 4. Areas of General Knowledge Required of Building Energy Auditor
Areas of General Knowledge
Calculations
Perform simple math operations of addition
Perform simple math operations of subtraction
Perform simple math operations of multiplication
Perform simple math operations of division
Use a calculator
Compare numbers
Figure averages
Perform mathematical operations with fractions
Perform mathematical operations with decimals
Perform math operations using single and multiple digit numbers
Change numbers from percentages into decimals and back
Transfer number sequences from a source into a column
Solve ratio problems
Solve percent problems
Perform math operations using signed (positive and negative) numbers
Multiply and factor algebraic expressions
Collect information to solve a problem
Solve formula calculations with one unknown
Change numbers from fractions into decimals and back
Make rough estimates
Solve problems with graphs
Solve formula calculations with more than one unknown
Perform math operations using exponential numbers
Measure angles
Solve right triangle problems using Pythagorean theorem
Perform angular calculations
Solve right triangle trigonometry problems
Solve oblique triangle problems
Solve triangle-circle problems
Solve angle-circle problems
Solve oblique triangle trigonometry problems
Solve compound angle problems
Basic Measurement
Convert measurements from one unit to another (English to Metric, etc.)
Record measurements, using appropriate unit notations (feet, yards, etc.)
Measure area (square inches, square centimeters, etc.)
Read and use the scale of a drawing
Read measurements taken with common measuring tools
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Areas of General Knowledge
Basic Measurement (continued)
Use tools to measure quantities and solve problems involving measurements
Estimate and approximate measurements
Read, interpret, and use size-scale relationships
Read and apply coefficient measurements indicated in a table or chart
Measure temperature to within 1 degree Fahrenheit
Find the dimensions of an object from a scale drawing
Measure linear distances (length, width, etc.)
Measure volume (cubic inches, liters, etc.)
Calculate the perimeter and areas of common figures
Make simple scale drawings
Communications
Ask questions
Evaluate options/alternatives
Evaluate solutions
Listen
Write reports
Communicate using the vocabulary/terminology of a related trade
Communicate with co-workers and/or business people verbally (face-to-face)
Explain procedures
Follow verbal job instructions
Read information from tables and graphs (bar, circle, etc.)
Find information in references (Machinery handbook, tap/drill charts, etc.)
Read drawings and specifications sheets
Research information
Summarize information
Communicate with co-workers and/or business people verbally (telephone, radio)
Communicate with co-workers and/or business people in writing (letters, memos)
Read codes (building codes, electrical codes, standards, etc.)
Read statistical data
Write words and numbers legibly
Find information in catalogs
Read and follow a map, chart, plan, etc.
Read and follow directions found in equipment manuals and code books
Present to others
Participate in brainstorming
Read flowcharts
Read and interpret directions found on labels, packages, or instruction sheets
Compare names
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Table 5. Skills and Abilities Required of Building Energy Auditor
Skills and Abilities
Ability to communicate technical information to
Ability to comprehend technical documentation
others
Ability to convert units Ability to determine tools needed for an audit
Ability to interpret scheduling tools (Gantt chart,
Ability to recognize abnormalities
milestone, etc.)
Ability to interpret utility bills, rate structures and
Ability to interpret thermography
utility contracts
Ability to use conversion factors Analytical skills
Basic math skills Basic engineering skills
Computer skills Construction cost estimating skills
Data collection skills Decision making ability
Detail-oriented Diagnostic abilities
Documentation skills Interpersonal skills
Interviewing skills Listening skills
Normalizing data Observational skills
Organizational skills Problem solving skills
Programming skills Project management skills
Quantitative analysis skills Reading ability
Technical writing skills Troubleshooting skills
Verbal communication skills Word processing skills
Written communication skills
7
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Table 6. Attitudes Required of Building Energy Auditor
Attitudes
1 Analytic 25 Pride in job
2 Detail-oriented 26 Work efficiently (time)
3 Critical thinker 27 Work in teams
4 Professional 28 Confident
5 Accurate/Precise 29 Meticulous
6 Common sense 30 Persistent
7 Free of substance abuse 31 Respectful
8 Organized 32 Team player
9 Dependable 33 Adaptable/Flexible
10 Quality focused 34 Patience
11 Focused 35 Work efficiently (resources)
12 Honest 36 Customer-oriented
13 Integrity 37 Multi-tasker
14 Safety conscious 38 Self-discipline
15 Cooperative 39 Courteous
16 Ethical 40 Creative
17 Good listener 41 Industrious
18 Punctual 42 Initiative
19 Responsible/accountable 43 Eager to learn new things
20 Trustworthy 44 Manage stress/pressure
21 Conscientious 45 Positive attitude
22 Goal-oriented 46 Self-control
23 Good time manager 47 Tactful
24 Lack of prejudice (bias) 48 Tolerant
8
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Table 7. Tools, Equipment and Resources Required by Building Energy Auditor
Tools, Equipment, and Resources
Audit tools (See Table 8)
Best practices guides
Computer
Cost estimation guides
EPA Portfolio Manager
Internet
Local and federal OSHA requirements
OSHA
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
Project management software (Project, Excel, etc.)
Spreadsheet and simulation software
Standards, codes, and guidelines ( See Table 9)
US Energy Information Agency database
Weather databases (NOAA, utility companies, airport, etc.)
Audit Tools
Equipment
Air flow measurement devices Ballast discriminator
Black tape Calculator
Camera CO2 meter
Combustion Analyzer Compressed air/steam leak detector
Data logger Duct Sizing tools
Flashlight Infrared camera
Length measuring tool (tape measure, laser Light level meter
measure, etc.)
Manometer Mirror
Non-contact thermometer Pipe Sizer
Power measurement tools Psychrometric measurement tool
Relative humidity sensor Sound level meter
Stopwatch Tachometer
Temperature sensor Ultra sonic flow meter
Velometer
Software
3EPlus AirMaster
Blast CAD Viewer
DOE2 EERE
E-Grid Energy Plus
9
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Audit Tools
Software (continued)
EPA Portfolio manager eQuest
FEMP BLCC (Federal Energy Management
Program, Building Life Cycle Costing) HAP - carrier
IES MotorMaster
Open Studio Phast (DOE tool)
Photometrics PV Watts
Spreadsheet Trace 700 - Trane
Transys
10
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Standards, Codes, and Guidelines
ASTM Standards
ASTM Standard E1934-10 -- Standard Guide for Examining Electrical and Mechanical Equipment with
Infrared Thermograph
ASTM Standard E1311-2010 -- Standard Test Methods for Minimum Temperature Detection Difference
for Thermal Imaging Systems
Most current editions of:
AEE -- Handbook of Energy Audits
AEE Reference Books
American Institute of Architects -- Guideline for the Construction of Hospital and Health Care Facilities
ASHRAE -- Building Performance Metrics Best Practices
ASHRAE -- Handbooks: Fundamentals, Systems, Applications, Refrigeration
ASHRAE -- Procedures for Commercial Building Energy Audits; 2nd Editions
ASHRAE/ASPE/AWW -- Water Condition Standards
Cost Estimating Guides
ECAM (Energy Charting and Metrics)
EERE (Air Master, Motor Master, etc.)
FEMP M&V Guidelines
General OSHA Guidelines
Illuminating Engineering Society -- The Lighting Handbook
International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol
MICA -- National Mechanical Insulation Standards
NIST -- Handbook 135 Life Cycle Costing Manual for Federal Energy Management Program
11
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Table 10. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Tools, Equipment, and Resources
Required for Communicating with Stakeholders
Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and
Resources
Identify the owner's project team
Conduct a meeting with the client's • Computer skills
representative • Interpersonal skills
• Verbal
Create the project contact list
communication skills
Identify the responsibilities of the owner's • Written
project team members communication skills
Determine problem resolution
methodologies
Review the scope and process with the client
Review the scope of work with client • Industry accepted • Computer skills • Computer
Outline process of how the audit will be standards, codes and • Interpersonal skills • OSHA
conducted guidelines • Project management • Standards, codes,
• Safety practices skills and guidelines (See
Discuss contract concerns • Understanding of what an • Verbal Table 9)
energy audit is communication skills
Discuss site specific requirements (access,
safety, etc.) • Written
communication skills
Determine schedule with client
Discuss reporting requirements (scheduling
of reporting, to whom, etc.)
Table 11. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Tools, Equipment, and Resources
Required for Developing the Action Plan
Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and
Resources
Conduct pre-audit activities
Read building owners objectives and criteria • Building systems • Reading ability • Standards, codes,
engineering concepts and and guidelines (See
12
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Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and
Resources
Read scope of work principles Table 9)
• Components of building
Read energy audit contract and process systems and
assemblies
Identify criteria for determining success • Industry accepted
standards, codes and
Review the auditor's project team roles and guidelines
responsibilities • Industry terminology
Assign audit team based on skills required, • Types of audits (level 1, 2,
scope of work, and staff availability or 3, etc.)
Review final format of deliverable
Generate preliminary list of systems and assemblies to be audited
Read available existing technical documents • Audit processes and tasks • Ability to • Standards, codes,
and drawings • Building systems comprehend and guidelines (See
Determine the initial equipment to be engineering concepts and technical Table 9)
audited principles documentation
Determine initial building assemblies to be • Components of building
audited and process systems and
Determine the performance parameters to assemblies
be measured • Historic building practices
Determine audit tools and forms
Determine methodology for energy analysis • Data collection protocols • Ability to determine • Audit tools (See
(energy model, bin data, etc.) • Industry accepted tools needed for an Table 8)
Compile interview questions standards, codes and audit • Standards, codes,
Select tools and equipment needed for the guidelines and guidelines (See
audit (data loggers, light meters, specialized • M&V methodologies Table 9)
tools, etc.) • Measurement equipment
Develop customized tools and forms if (current transformers, data
needed loggers, etc.) and
techniques
Select forms for audits Typical energy analysis
methodologies
Determine project schedule
Identify tasks • Audit processes and tasks • Ability to interpret • Project management
Identify access limitations of areas in the • Types of audits (level 1, 2, scheduling tools software (Project,
13
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Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and
Resources
facility or 3, etc.) (Gantt chart, Excel, etc.)
Estimate the time required to complete each milestone, etc.)
task • Organizational skills
Determine sequence of tasks • Project management
skills
Create initial project schedule document
Identify safety and access requirements for the facility
Review site EHS plan if available • Potential environmental, • Local and federal
Assess potential risks with identified tasks health, and safety (EHS) OSHA requirements
and type of facility hazards and risks • Personal protective
Identify required PPE equipment (PPE)
Verify emergency points of contact
Arrange for site access
Table 12. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Tools, Equipment, and Resources
Required for Conducting Pre-Site Visit Data Collection Activities
Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and
Resources
Obtain utility information
Request copies of actual utility bills from • Energy calculations (e.g. • Ability to interpret • Computer
owners or utility company energy modeling) utility bills, rate • Internet
Obtain utility authorization forms as required • Minimum required time structures and utility • US Energy
Obtain relevant information from the utility period of utility data contracts Information Agency
representative • Understanding of utility bill • Verbal database
information communication skills
• Written
communication skills
Obtain utility rate structures • Utility rate structures and
Obtain utility contracts (third party suppliers, schedules
delivery company, etc.)
Obtain information about utility incentive
programs
Verify data obtained is correct and complete
14
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Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and
Resources
Obtain facility data from point of contact
Request equipment list • Building systems • Ability to • Computer
Request maintenance logs and work orders engineering concepts and comprehend • Standards, codes,
principles technical and guidelines (See
Request latest capital improvement plan • Components of building documentation Table 9)
Request any technical documents and process systems and • Verbal
Request results of any previously completed assemblies communication skills
audit reports and whether recommendations • Written
were implemented communication skills
Request results of any previously
completed, in process or planned
renovations or upgrades
Request building operating plans
Request operating schedules
Gather historical weather data
Identify methodology used to normalize data • Understand available data • Normalizing data • Weather databases
Determine duration and interval of data types for weather (bin (NOAA, utility
required data, hourly data, TMY, companies, airport,
Identify available weather location etc.) etc.)
Obtain weather data
Select methodology for filling in missing
data
Fill in the missing data
Table 13. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Tools, Equipment, and Resources
Required for Collecting Data On-site
Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and
Resources
Obtain information from facility staff
Interview key personnel on building • Building systems • Detail-oriented
systems/processes engineering concepts and • Documentation skills
Interview key personnel on operational principles • Interpersonal skills
15
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Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and
Resources
concerns • Components of building • Interviewing skills
Record responses and process systems and
assemblies
Follow up on interview question responses • Maintenance procedures
and roles
• Operations within the
facility
Obtain information from facility occupants
Collect information from facility occupants on • IEQ • Detail-oriented
physiological and psychological perceptions • Sampling protocols and • Documentation skills
regarding IEQ procedures • Interpersonal skills
Record responses • Interviewing skills
• Listening skills
16
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Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and
Resources
building lighting fixtures, controls and programming • Detail-oriented and guidelines (See
schedules • Building systems • Documentation skills Table 9)
Obtain lighting fixture count and engineering concepts and • Basic math skills
characteristics (ballasts, amps, etc.) principles • Observational skills
Obtain nameplate data • Components of building • Programming skills
Obtain water distribution system fixture count and process systems and
and nameplate data assemblies
Evaluate ventilation requirements for the • Electrical power systems
building • IEQ
Evaluate IEQ • Onsite energy generation
(CHP, PV, wind, thermal,
Set up collection of data and establish etc.)
frequency and time period of data collection
• Process systems and
Obtain spot measurements using audit tools
controls
Compare trend data to spot measurements • Systems interactions and
for validation integration
Collect data
Evaluate the accuracy of data collected
Document observations
Verify building and equipment operation
schedules
17
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Table 14. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Tools, Equipment, and Resources
Required for Identifying Opportunities for Improving Building Performance
Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and Resources
Establish energy and cost baseline
Review collected data • Building systems • Ability to recognize • Audit tools (See Table 8)
Synchronize data collection based engineering concepts and abnormalities • Spreadsheet and simulation
on time stamp principles • Analytical skills software
Identify factors that impact usage • Components of building and • Decision making ability • Standards, codes, and
Build a baseline model process systems and • Detail-oriented guidelines
Calibrate baseline model to data assemblies • Investigative skills • Weather databases (NOAA,
Evaluate the accuracy of baseline • Heating and cooling degree utility companies, airport,
Apply rate structure to baseline days and balance point etc.)
Calibrate baseline cost to data temperature
• Systems interactions and
integration
• Utility rate structures and
schedules
Establish benchmarks
Survey benchmark sources • Benchmarking • Ability to use conversion • EPA Portfolio Manager
Select appropriate benchmarks • Typical energy usage by factors • Standards, codes, and
Convert data into common metric building type guidelines (See Table 9)
Compare performance of building to
benchmark
18
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Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and Resources
Disaggregate the energy end use breakdown
Determining categories for end use • Building systems • Ability to recognize • Audit tools (See Table 8)
Analyze data collected by system engineering concepts and abnormalities • Spreadsheet and simulation
Compute energy use by system principles • Analytical skills software
Reconcile with baseline energy use • Components of building and • Decision making ability • Weather databases (NOAA,
process systems and • Detail-oriented utility companies, airport,
assemblies • Investigative skills etc.)
• Systems interactions and
integration
• Typical percentage of end
usage by occupancy type
• Utility rate structures and
schedules
19
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Table 15. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Tools, Equipment, and Resources
Required for Identifying Opportunities for Improving Building Performance
Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and Resources
Identify Deviations from Best Practices
Interpret the data collected onsite • Building systems • Ability to recognize • Audit tools (See Table 8)
and prior to the audit engineering concepts and abnormalities • Best practices guides
Verify the rate structure is correct principles • Diagnostic abilities • Standards, codes, and
Compare collected information to • Components of building and • Problem solving skills guidelines (See Table 9)
target or best practice of each process systems and • Troubleshooting skills
system assemblies
Correlate data to make comparisons • Energy efficiency measures
with activities occurring in the (EEM) and economics
building • Systems interactions and
Enumerate potential energy savings integration
opportunities • Understanding of
Describe proposed EEM in sufficient engineering practices and
detail to develop savings and cost principles
• Understanding of industry
best practices for various
building systems
• When a building needs to be
"tuned up" versus new
installations
Determine Energy Impact of Each Measure
Input each measure into baseline • Building systems • Ability to recognize • Audit tools (See Table 8)
tool engineering concepts and abnormalities • Spreadsheet and simulation
Collect additional performance principles • Decision making ability software
information as required • Components of building and • Detail-oriented • Standards, codes, and
Estimate impact of each measure process systems and • Investigative skills guidelines (See Table 9)
(maintenance and energy impacts) assemblies • Quantitative analysis skills • Weather databases (NOAA,
Estimate impact of interaction • Greenhouse gas utility companies, airport,
among identified measures calculations etc.)
Estimate emission and greenhouse • Systems interactions and
gas impact as required integration
Identify M&V methodology as • Utility rate structures and
required schedules
Estimate Implementation Cost
Identify material quantity for each • Building systems • Construction cost estimating • Cost estimation guides
20
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Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and Resources
measure engineering concepts and skills • Standards, codes, and
Determine labor hours for each principles guidelines (See Table 9)
measure • Components of building
Contact vendors and contractors as and process systems and
appropriate assemblies
Incorporate rebates and incentives • Industry equipment
for each measure • Rebates and incentives
Estimate net cost of each measure
Conduct an Economic Analysis
Select economic analysis methods • Engineering economics • Standards, codes, and
Perform economic analysis for each • Financial analysis guidelines (See Table 9)
measure methodologies and
Prioritize measures thresholds (e.g. life cycle
costs analysis, ROI)
Table 16. Duties, Tasks, Steps, Specialized Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Tools, Equipment, and Resources
Required for Producing the Deliverable
Duties, Tasks, and Steps Specialized Knowledge Skills and Abilities Tools, Equipment, and Resources
Write a Summary Audit Report
Draft audit report • Ability to communicate • Standards, codes, and
Review audit report with client technical information to guidelines (See Table 9)
Incorporate comments into audit others
report • Technical writing skills
Issue final audit report • Word processing skills
Present report to client as required
21
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