BPI Certification Program Celebrates Its Anniversary

2018 marks the 25th year of operation for the residential energy efficiency nonprofit Building Performance Institute (or BPI). The BPI organization aims to create awareness about the “house-as-a-system” mentality and works to educate contractors on home energy efficiency, comfort, durability, health, and safety. Additionally, the BPI Certification program honors technically qualified home performance contractors who uphold BPI’s standards.

BPI Certification program logoMany contractors are familiar with the BPI acronym due to the organization’s well-known and nationally recognized home energy auditor certification program. If you’re new to BPI, take a moment to visit our BPI Energy Auditor Overview series to learn more about home energy auditing as a career and the benefits of BPI Certification.

After 25 years, BPI Certification has earned a high reputation in the home performance industry. In an independent Fall 2016 survey, professionals in the home performance and home energy sectors highly rated BPI for brand familiarity, career advancement, and value. In fact, 84% of BPI Certified professionals cited that their BPI Certification had enhanced their careers.

With this momentum in tow, the Building Performance Institute initiated a series of updates and partnerships in 2017 to help reach new highs for their anniversary year. Let’s recap BPI’s accomplishments and evaluate how these activities will keep BPI Certification at the forefront of the home performance industry.

Click on the topics below to learn more or continue reading this post.

Re-Designed Website

It all starts with the website. At the pace that technology is changing, 2017 marked the perfect time for BPI to update its organizational website. With a modern and cleaner look, the new BPI.org website makes it quicker and easier for professionals to access important information. This is particularly important for home performance professionals who are constantly on the go and working in the field.

What’s great, too, about the BPI website is that there’s content available for both industry professionals and homeowners alike. Industry professionals use the BPI website to learn about technical energy auditing standards and the certifications that are available to them. Homeowners benefit from the BPI website by finding certified BPI energy auditors in their area and reading homeowner-centric blog posts. The homeowner blog section garnered over 23,000 page views from 35 blog posts!

Increased Social Media Presence

Speaking of digital communications, BPI has been very active on social media and uses the various platforms as new ways to reach audiences. Social media is not just for millennials and teenagers; it has become a core component of doing business in this virtually progressive world of ours.

Facebook

Facebook logoFacebook is a great avenue for sharing and following blog posts. BPI’s most read-blog posts from Facebook discussed roof ventilation and the R-value of insulation.

As of this posting, BPI has 3,110 Facebook uses who “like” their page and have opted to follow their news and updates. With over 7,000 page “likes” on Facebook, we at Everblue also see the value in Facebook as a way of sharing information with our contacts. Nowadays, everyone has a Facebook, so it’s a great way to tap into peoples’ interests and catch them when they’re in the mood to learn more about a specific topic.

Twitter

Twitter logoTwitter is a great avenue for following topical conversations using hashtags such as #energyefficiency and #EEDay2017.

Let’s quickly explain the hashtag process for those who are less familiar with Twitter. Twitter users can categorize their posts using a hashtag, formatted as such: the pound symbol (#) followed by a keyword. When other Twitter users search for that hashtag, they get a list of posts that have been categorized in this way.

BPI used the hashtags #EnergyEfficiencyDay and #HomePerformanceWeek on October 5 to celebrate the annual “Energy Efficiency Day” awareness campaign on social media. Energy Efficiency Day brings together regional and national organizations, businesses, utilities, and individuals working to promote energy efficiency. Even months later, users can search those hashtags on Twitter to learn about how organizations are spreading the word about home performance in their communities.

Are you one of BPI’s 3,695 Twitter followers? We are! Find BPI on Twitter with username @_BPI_ or follow Everblue on Twitter with username @everblue_edu.

LinkedIn

LinkedIn logoLinkedIn is a great avenue for following blog posts from trusted industry professionals and organizations. Many people view LinkedIn as the professional version of Facebook. It’s a platform for digital networking and vouching for esteemed colleagues.

A user’s LinkedIn network is comprised of many like-minded professionals, which makes it the best outlet for sharing industry-specific information. In addition to connecting with people, Linkedin users have the ability to also follow business pages and join topical groups. Within the home performance industry, there are LinkedIn Groups for topics and organizations such as RESNET.US, RESNET BPI – Energy Audit and Home Performance, Green Building, Construction Project Pros, Building Science Community, BUILDER, and state-specific home builders associations. All of these groups are great outlets for knowledge sharing and discussion.

Listing on the Credential Engine and Credential Finder

BPI recently became part of the Credential Engine and Credential Finder family. Credential Finder is a nonprofit that promotes certifications nationwide. To date, over 1,500 credentials have been submitted to the Credential Registry from more than 170 organizations.

Although the BPI Certification program is already ANSI Accredited, it doesn’t hurt to create further brand awareness and add legitimacy to the program via these credentialing websites. The Internet offers a wide range of websites for home performance professionals to browse, so it’s great that BPI is adding itself to important resources about career certification.

Building Science Training at the High School Level

With the goal of introducing students to home performance as a career path, BPI has partnered with utility companies and the Connecticut Department of Labor to offer Building Science Principles training to 11th and 12th graders.

Connecticut teachers focusing on construction careers (plumbing, carpentry, HVAC, electrical, masonry) will now incorporate whole-house training into their curriculum so that young people can be exposed to the building science aspect of those careers. In the aforementioned Fall 2016 survey, 96% of respondents indicated that they were working in a field related to their BPI Certification, so the parallels between home construction and BPI energy auditing are not going unnoticed. On the contrary, there is a strong tie-in, and many people in the industry believe that home energy auditing is a REQUIRED component of a home construction career.

In addition, the CT Department of Labor is developing a job classification for an Energy Efficiency Technician to be included in the CT DOL Job Index and will call out the BPI Building Analyst Certification as a requirement, which should drive the need for BA Certification in Connecticut.

Between building code requirements for blower door testing and the energy savings earned through a home energy audit, BPI Certification has become a strong career supplement for home performance professionals across the country.

Support for the Residential PACE Financing Program

On Nov. 18, 2016, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) released Best Practice Guidelines for Residential PACE Financing Programs. Since 2009, more than 100,000 homeowners have made energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements to their homes through residential Property Assessed Clean Energy (R-PACE) programs.

During the open comment period, BPI provided extensive comments to DOE regarding the need for a trained and certified workforce, strong consumer protections, companies who commit to following quality standards in installation, and the inclusion of health and safety upgrades as qualified measures.

Residential home improvement has long been riddled with unscrupulous contractors not looking out for the customer’s best interest and performing subpar work that does not get completed. To curtail such activity, many Energy Efficiency Program Administrators point to BPI Certification as the measure of credibility for home performance contractors. Specifically, in New York and New Jersey, technicians are required to have a BPI Certification in order to participate in their state program.

It has become increasingly clear that BPI Certification enhances the Residential PACE program by establishing an environment of credibility, quality, and reliability.

BPI-Approved Products

In addition to workforce credibility, BPI also has its hands in product endorsement. The BPI Listed Product program offers a seal of approval for tools, products, and materials being used in the home energy industry. Just as BPI Certification sets the bar for contractor work, the BPI Listed Product program provides confidence that products and materials meet home performance industry standards.

BPI added nine new products to the list in 2017, making up the plug load management, attic access barrier, window, and air pressure balancing categories.

If your company manufacturers a product that is used for residential applications, learn more about the BPI Product Listing Program.

Renamed RBE-WHALCHI Certification

In August, BPI announced the renaming of the Residential Building Envelope – Whole House Air Leakage Control Installer (RBE-WHALCHI) certification to Air Leakage Control Installers (ALC). This designation focuses specifically on weatherization and home retrofit work.

weatherization professional in BPI certification program

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) paved the way for weatherization work, providing funding to organizations across the country to train their contractors on insulation, airsealing, caulking, and other hands-on retrofit measures.

It’s a positive note that BPI is modernizing the name of the weatherization certification; the new name is more straightforward and transparent to what type of skills the contractor has. The name change also shows a renewed focus on growing this certification and encouraging these technical skills in the industry.

With all these changes and updates underway, it’s exciting to see what kind of year 2018 will be for the home performance industry and BPI Certification. As an approved BPI Test Center, we look forward to training even more contractors across the country. Make this the year that you decide to improve your career! We will help you earn a BPI Certification, including every step from start to finish. Give us a call at (800) 460-2575 to learn more or visit our BPI Energy Auditor Training page.

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Solar Certification Program Prepares for 2018 Solar Growth

With interest and demand for solar energy growing at an unprecedented rate, the organizations managing the solar industry are rapidly adjusting their five-year plans to best reflect the market and account for future growth. If you’re looking for a solar certification program, now is the best time to get started!

For example, the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (or NABCEP) expanded and updated many of its programs in the second half of 2017 to prepare for a successful 2018 and beyond. NABCEP leads the charge as the preeminent organization for solar standards development and manages the most well-known solar certification program.

nabcep logo

Here’s a brief listing of the NABCEP Certification changes we spotted in 2017. For more information about these changes, please keep reading below the bullet points or click the desired link.

Solar Certification Program Changes

May 2017

September 2017

October 2017

December 2017

Before we dive into all the updates, let’s do a quick history lesson on NABCEP’s solar certification program so you can get a better sense of why the new and, in some cases, improved certifications are important.

Prior to 2017, there were three designations for solar photovoltaic (PV) professionals.

  • NABCEP PV Associate (formerly called NABCEP Entry Level)
  • NABCEP PV Installation Professional
  • NABCEP PV Technical Sales

NABCEP has also offered a solar certification program for solar heating and wind professionals, but the solar PV certifications are far more common.

As the solar industry has matured, it has become very apparent that there are roles and responsibilities held by a variety of professionals on the job. It’s not always boiled down to just three designations. For this reason, NABCEP has taken a serious look at the responsibilities and job titles in the field and has worked on introducing (or modifying) certifications to best align with these skill sets. Over the course of one year, NABCEP introduced five solar certifications and is constantly looking for ways to improve the certification process for convenience and efficiency.

Now’s let’s take a closer look at the changes.

NABCEP PV Systems Inspector Certification

The NABCEP PV Systems Inspector (PVSI) Certification is designed for professionals who currently work as, or desire to work as, a system inspector of solar electric systems.

The NABCEP PVSI Certification demonstrates a candidate’s proficiency in 15 tasks organized into four performance domains:

  • Inspecting Electrical Components and Systems
  • Inspecting Energy Storage Components and Systems
  • Inspecting Mechanical/Structural Components and Systems
  • Documentation for the System Inspection

There are no eligibility requirements to take the NABCEP PVSI exam, however candidates should have some familiarity with solar photovoltaic systems. Knowledge of applicable codes and ordinances is presumed.

The U.S.-based exams can be taken online from anywhere that has a stable Internet connection. Candidates must complete an application process through NABCEP and prepare to take the exam via live online proctoring. For more information, please see the NABCEP System Inspector Handbook.

NABCEP Solar Heating System Inspector

The NABCEP Solar Heating System Inspector (SHSI) Certification is designed for professionals who currently work as, or desire to work as, a system inspector of solar thermal systems.

The NABCEP SHSI Certification demonstrates a candidate’s proficiency in 13 tasks organized into 5 performance domains:

  • Appropriate System Design for Applications
  • Structural
  • Mechanical and Solar Loop
  • Plumbing/Potable Piping
  • Electrical

There are no eligibility requirements to take the NABCEP SHSI exam, however candidates should have some familiarity with solar hot water systems. Knowledge of applicable codes and ordinances is presumed.

The U.S.-based exams can be taken online from anywhere that has a stable Internet connection. Candidates must complete an application process through NABCEP and prepare to take the exam via live online proctoring. For more information, please see the NABCEP System Inspector Handbook.

NABCEP PV Installation Professional Job Task Analysis

The NABCEP PV Installation Professional (PVIP) designation is the most prestigious solar certification program offered by NABCEP. This is the designation that is most commonly listed as a requirement for state licensure and/or utility programs, where applicable.

Due to its popularity and growing importance, NABCEP has made several changes to the Job Task Analysis (JTA) and certification process for this esteemed credential, including:

  • Adding testable concepts about 2017 National Electric Code
  • Changing the work experience requirement
  • Allowing paper-and-pencil format testing AND computer-based testing
  • Re-organizing the PVIP JTA to align with the new PV Specialist learning domains

Adding testable concepts about 2017 National Electric Code

Adopted in all 50 states, the National Electric Code (NEC) is the benchmark for safe electrical design, installation, and inspection to protect people and property from electrical hazards. The NEC code addresses the installation of electrical conductors, equipment, and raceways; signaling and communications conductors, equipment, and raceways; and optical fiber cables and raceways in commercial, residential, and industrial occupancies.

Most states are using the 2014 NEC in its building code, but more progressive states (and the NABCEP Certification program) are starting to require 2017 NEC so that electrical contractors can remain up-to-date on the most modern technology, such as rapid shutdown-compliant systems.

Changing the work experience requirement

To qualify for the NABCEP PV Installation Professional exam, candidates must satisfy Training and Work Experience requirements.

Before 2018, candidates were required to demonstrate proof of work experience on 3-5 permitted solar installations in a leadership role. The number of required solar installations varied depending on a candidate’s education level and work experience.

Now, ALL candidates have to demonstrate work experience totaling at least six “Project Credits.”

Project Credits are identified and awarded according to the following scale:

  • System size of 1-999 kW = 2 Project Credits
  • System size of 1 mW and up = 3 Project Credits

Not only has the Work Experience requirement become more straightforward, but candidates may not have to work on as many solar projects in order to qualify for the exam.

Allowing paper-and-pencil format testing AND computer-based testing

Before 2018, the advanced NABCEP installation exam was only offered twice per year – Fall and Spring – and only available in a paper-and-pencil format. In addition to having a specific exam date in the Fall and Spring, NABCEP also posted a series of dates representing application deadlines and exam scheduling deadlines. It was, and still is, important for candidates to satisfy both the Training and Work Experience requirements before these dates so that they are 100% eligible to take the exam when it comes around.

Now, the NABCEP PV Installation exam will be available by paper-and-pencil format AND computer-based testing. In addition to the Fall & Spring exam dates, NABCEP has introduced testing windows for the computer-based exams. Candidates will be able to take their exam at one of Scantron’s (formerly called Castle Worldwide) 600+ test sites in the U.S. and Canada.

For the year 2018, NABCEP is offering four testing windows for computer-based exams. The first window, January 1-5, has actually been extended through February 8. If a candidate chooses the computer-based testing option, he/she will need to submit a scheduling request to Scantron at least four business days prior to the date of the candidate wishes to take their exam. It’s unclear at this time whether candidates of computer-based testing will also be required to submit an application before a particular date.

Re-organizing the PVIP JTA to align with the new PV Specialist learning domains

As we will cover in the last sections of this post, NABCEP has introduced three PV Specialist certifications. We believe that NABCEP has recognized the wide range of skills required to become a solar panel installer and realized that there was a gap between the entry-level PV Associate designation and the advanced PV Installation Professional designation.

As a result, the three PV Specialist certifications were born, each covering a highly focused skill set:

  • Design
  • Installation
  • Commissioning & Maintenance

When you review the updated Job Task Analysis for the NABCEP PV Installation Professional Certification, you’ll see that the learning domains align almost exactly to all three PV Specialist certifications. In other words, to become a NABCEP PV Installation Professional, you must know all of the learning domains for PV Design Specialist, PV Installation Specialist, and PV Commissioning & Maintenance Specialist.

We have to believe that there is a credentialing hierarchy at play that hasn’t been specifically stated by NABCEP:

  • Step 1: Start with NABCEP PV Associate
  • Step 2: Pursue NABCEP PV Specialty 1
  • Step 3: Pursue NABCEP PV Specialty 2
  • Step 4: Pursue NABCEP PV Specialty 3
  • Step 5: Pursue NABCEP PV Installation Professional

If a candidate pursues all three PV Specialist certifications, he/she will essentially have acquired all the knowledge to prepare for the NABCEP PV Installation Professional exam. This marks the NABCEP PV Installation Professional exam as the highest level of achievement for solar certification program.

NABCEP PV Design Specialist

Developed in conjunction with U.S. Department of Energy SunShot Initiative, the NABCEP PV Design Specialist designation enables someone to become an expert at configuring the electrical design of a solar project.

The learning objectives are as follows:

  • Reviewing Customer Expectations
  • Reviewing Project Criteria
  • Assessing Project Site
  • Configuring Mechanical Design
  • Configuring Electrical Design
  • Configuring System Monitoring, Control & Communications Design
  • Preparing Project Documentation
  • Securing Permits and Approvals
  • Adapting System Design

To become a PV Design Specialist, a candidate must complete PV Design and NEC Code training in accordance with the Job Task Analysis. A candidate must also possess an OSHA 10-Hour card. This exam will be administered at Scantron’s 600+ test sites in the U.S. and Canada.

NABCEP PV Installation Specialist

Developed in conjunction with U.S. Department of Energy SunShot Initiative, the NABCEP PV Installation Specialist designation enables someone to demonstrate proficiency in all aspects of solar panel installation.

The learning objectives are as follows:

  • Developing a Safety Plan
  • Safeguarding Against Hazards
  • Installing Raceways
  • Installing Electrical Equipment
  • Installing DC PV System Conductors
  • Installing AC PV System Conductors
  • Installing Grounding & Bonding
  • Completing Utility Interconnection Points
  • Installing System Monitoring, Control & Communications Hardware
  • Installing Battery Equipment
  • Installing Ground-Mounted Structures
  • Installing Building-Mounted Systems
  • Installing PV Modules

To become a PV Installation Specialist, a candidate must complete PV Installation and NEC Code training in accordance with the Job Task Analysis. A candidate must also possess an OSHA 10-Hour card. This exam will be administered at Scantron’s 600+ test sites in the U.S. and Canada.

NABCEP PV Commissioning & Maintenance Specialist

Developed in conjunction with U.S. Department of Energy SunShot Initiative, the NABCEP PV Commissioning & Maintenance Specialist designation enables someone to manage the operations, maintenance, and commissioning aspects of a solar project.

The learning objectives are as follows:

  • Reviewing or Developing Commissioning Protocol
  • Completing Visual and Mechanical Inspection
  • Conducting Mechanical Tests
  • Conducting Electrical Tests
  • Verifying System Operations
  • Confirming Project Completion
  • Orienting End User to System
  • Verifying System Performance
  • Performing Preventive Maintenance
  • Performing Corrective Maintenance

To become a PV Commissioning & Maintenance Specialist, a candidate must complete PV Installation and NEC Code training in accordance with the Job Task Analysis. A candidate must also possess an OSHA 30-Hour card. Note that this PV Specialist certification is the only one that requires OSHA 30. This exam will be administered at Scantron’s 600+ test sites in the U.S. and Canada.

NABCEP Solar Certification Program Exam Information

Because of its name, the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners has long struggled with servicing international solar professionals. The NABCEP Certification exams are administered by Scantron, which is a third-party proctoring company with test centers in many locations around the world. The conflict, however, is that the NABCEP exams themselves were not available outside of North American testing centers until recently.

NABCEP PV Associate

Now, the NABCEP PV Associate exam will be administered at 370 test sites in 97 countries, including China, India, Australia, Germany, Kenya, and many others. International test-takers will be required to pay an additional $75 exam fee, which is standard for all of Scantron’s international exams. Candidates should also know that the exams will be administered in English only.

Everblue’s NABCEP PV Associate Exam Prep is a self-guided online training program accessible to candidates worldwide. After completing the course, individuals will pay the standard $150 exam fee as well as the international $75 exam fee. Once NABCEP validates a candidate’s eligibility, they will work directly with the individual to schedule a computer-based exam at one of Scantron’s testing locations.

For more information about NABCEP’s solar certification program or qualifying for a NABCEP exam, please call us at (800) 460-2575.

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RESNET Practical Simulation Exam Not Needed by Existing HERS Raters

A little over 18 months after the RESNET Practical Simulation Exam launched as a requirement for all HERS Rater candidates, the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) has announced that they will remove this requirement for existing Raters. That is, anyone who earned the RESNET HERS Rater Certification prior to July 2016.

The announcement came in mid-November 2017 after a unanimous vote from the RESNET Board of Directors Executive Committee.

hands raised photo

RESNET Practical Sim Exam Still Required for New Rater Candidates

To be clear, the RESNET Practical Simulation Exam will continue to be required for new candidates seeking RESNET HERS Rater Certification.

The RESNET Practical Simulation is one of four exams required for an individual to earn this distinguished home energy auditor certification.

A Brief History of the RESNET Practical Simulation Exam

RESNET introduced the new exam on July 1, 2016. From that date forward, all new Rater candidates have been required to pass the Practical Simulation exam as part of their initial certification process.

Existing HERS Raters were given a deadline of July 1, 2017 to take and pass the exam. An extension was granted to September 2017 and then pushed to February 2018 due to technical glitches with the computer software.

The RESNET Executive Committee ultimately decided that it was an unnecessary stressor to require certified Raters to take and pass the new exam.

Get RESNET Continuing Education Hours

On the bright side, existing HERS Raters who proactively passed the RESNET Practical Simulation Exam will be credited 18 hours of professional development credits that can be used toward their HERS Rater renewal.

Given that the RESNET Practical Simulation Exam fee is $250, this is a relatively inexpensive way of satisfying the RESNET HERS Rater continuing education requirements (18 hours every 3 years).

RESNET is being incredibly supportive and flexible with existing HERS Raters by offering multiple options for moving forward with an active HERS Rater status.

If you’re a HERS Rater and have paid for the Practical Simulation Exam but have not yet been tested, you have three options to choose from:

  • Take and pass the test to receive 18 hours of RESNET CEUs
  • Receive a full refund for the amount you paid on the exam
  • Apply $200 of the test fee as a credit toward your registration for the 2018 RESNET Conference

With regard to that last bullet point, most HERS Raters attend the annual RESNET Building Performance Conference as their primary means of acquiring RESNET CEUs. It works out perfectly that the 2018 conference is scheduled in just over 2 months (Feb. 26-28 in Orlando, FL).

Existing HERS Raters can now rest easy and focus on simply earning their 18 hours of continuing education to maintain their certification.

If you’re interested in becoming a HERS Rater, visit our RESNET HERS Certification page to learn more about program requirements or give us a call at (800) 460-2575.

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Solar Energy Opportunities Boom in These 3 U.S. Cities

According to the Energy Information Administration, solar energy opportunities are on the rise – as much as a 75% increase in utility-scale solar panel installations from 2007 on. When it comes to making big strides in the solar industry, utility-scale is where it’s at, which is consistently and steadily on the rise, simply by installing more panels per capita and making a greater impact.

This is great news for the solar job market, says Climate Reality Project. “Solar power is creating jobs almost 12 times faster than the overall U.S. economy. Last year, the U.S. solar workforce grew by more than 20% for the third year in a row. Better for the environment and a dynamic tool for economic growth and job creation, solar power shines in plenty of ways. That’s why many states are investing in it – and seeing the results.”

solar energy opportunities image

You could probably guess that the places with the greatest number of solar energy opportunities and job growth are predictably the sunnier cities like Los Angeles and San Diego, Honolulu, Phoenix, and even San Antonio. Collectively, these cities generate somewhere around 18,195 megawatts of solar energy, which supports a thriving industry of contractors, installers, maintenance and more.

However, there are a few more fledgling solar cities on the rise that might surprise you. Due to an increase in both their residential and non-residential solar panel installation, these cities are well on their way to taking the top slot.

Here are the top three cities with the most potential for solar energy opportunities and business growth.

sunny solar growth image

1. Newark, New Jersey

Were you surprised? Known more for its infinite highways, meatball parm sandwiches, and Tony Sopranos, the Garden State probably wouldn’t have been your first guess at the top growing solar state. Strange as it may seem, Newark, New Jersey – and the state as a whole – has seriously invested in solar. With 528 solar companies, that’s enough to employ over 7,000 people! The once crumbling city of Newark has certainly seen hard times, but it’s improving more and more every day, and we have a sneaking suspicion its investment in solar power has something to do with it. It looks like this is Newark’s time to shine.

2. Denver, Colorado

With an already booming outdoor and wellness industry, it’s no surprise to see Denver on the list of solar cities, but it is surprising to see that Denver hasn’t already been an industry leader. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, many cities haven’t yet tapped into their full solar potential. However, from the looks of Denver’s 44% increase in the number of utility-scale solar powered plants, they are about to do just that. Since 2014, the Centennial State invested approximately $305 million into solar energy, which flows directly into more solar jobs and enough power to light up 103,000 Colorado homes.

3. New York, New York

Another East Coast city with solar on the mind also happens to have the title of the greatest city in the world: New York, New York. Having long lagged behind the West Coast cities in solar growth, New York is finally taking the plunge and investing in climate-friendly energy. The Climate Reality Project reported that in 2015, the city’s solar jobs grew 13.3% over the previous year and are expected to continue growing 11% year over year. That’s a pretty big deal considering that many big businesses are based in the Big Apple, and its thousands of residents can also opt into this renewable resource instead of oil or coal. For solar energy, this is the place to really make it.

Though some cities are more sought-after in the solar industry for business growth, any solar contractor can boost his or her job lead generation if they partner up with companies like Modernize Solar Leads, who connect qualified contractors with homeowners.

If you’re to solar and want to learn the knowledge and skills to join the solar workforce, start with an Everblue solar training course today or call (800) 460-2575.

By Katherine Oakes, images courtesy of Modernize

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How to Find LEED Jobs, Especially When LEED Isn’t in the Title

Those looking to get into the sustainability industry usually begin with researching qualifications, such as education, certifications, and licensure. Then they look for corresponding job titles. If you’re reading this, you’re probably interested in green building and sustainability, so we’re going to help you with how to find LEED jobs.

What’s unique about LEED is that the phrase itself represents a skill set as opposed to an occupation.

In some cases, LEED will specifically be referenced in the job title, but more often than not, you’ll find LEED listed among eligibility requirements and knowledge areas.

If you’re new to LEED and want to get a better understanding of what jobs align best with it, please visit our What is LEED? section.

Important LEED Job Keywords

To aide in your job search, let’s first differentiate between two commonly misunderstood phrases that may come up during your research.

  • LEED Certification is a designation for high-performance green buildings
  • LEED Accreditation is a designation for people who understand LEED requirements

Though LEED has been available for over 15 years, it’s possible that some employers may not be aware of this distinction and may use the wrong phrase in the job listing. It will be up to you to use context clues to decipher which phrase is intended.

A knowledgeable employer may say LEED Accreditation or may list the specific credential name, such as LEED Green Associate or LEED AP, to provide further clarification of what’s expected.

For example…

Example of LEED Green Associate in a job listing

Speaking of LEED Accreditation credentials, there are two other distinctions that we should cover and may come up on a job listing.

  • LEED AP vs. LEED AP Specialty
  • Qualifying for LEED AP

LEED AP vs. LEED AP Specialty

LEED AP can refer to “inactive” LEED professionals who passed their LEED exam under an older version (pre-2009) OR to “active” professionals who have passed the newer LEED AP Specialty exam.

With regard to the second grouping, these professionals are more commonly known as LEED APs with a Specialty, such as LEED AP BD+C, as opposed to LEED AP alone.

Technically, these two sets of acronyms refer to different types of LEED professionals. You should know which one you are.

It’s more likely that employers want a LEED AP Specialty professional because their knowledge is more up-to-date. Seeing LEED AP on a job listing could be an oversight.

Qualifying for LEED AP

Regardless of which LEED AP is listed on a job posting, candidates should be aware of the official LEED credentialing process.

Because LEED AP is outdated, this version of the LEED exam is no longer available. If you’re thinking that “LEED AP” is ultimately your goal, then you should set your sights on “LEED AP with a Specialty.”

To become a LEED AP with a Specialty, a candidate MUST:

  • Pass the entry-level LEED Green Associate exam
  • Choose a LEED AP Specialty to study (there are 5 available)
  • Then pursue & pass the LEED AP Specialty exam

Now that we have an idea of what these LEED terms mean, let’s continue to break down the types of LEED jobs that you will want to find.

Types of LEED Jobs

If you begin your job search by typing “LEED Jobs” into Google, you’ll find USGBC Jobs as one of the top listings. This makes sense, considering that the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) created the LEED standards.

how to find LEED jobs

On this page, you’ll find jobs working for USGBC. Some will be more intimately involved with LEED than others, given that USGBC staff has administrative responsibilities in addition to technical responsibilities.

Looking at a more well-known job search site, Indeed.com, you’ll find a wide range of jobs that reference LEED, such as:

  • Energy Solutions Development Consultant
  • Energy and Sustainability Analyst
  • Sustainability Project Coordinator
  • Energy Analyst
  • Building Sustainability Consultant
  • Data Center Construction Project Manager
  • Designer & Documentation Specialist

As you can see, the common keywords among these job titles are “energy” and “sustainability,” which makes sense since LEED aims to reduce energy and improve sustainability in buildings. In other words, the LEED skill set will be frequently utilized in these positions despite the fact that LEED is not mentioned in the job title.

When LEED appears in a job title, it’s often going to be a LEED Project Manager or LEED Sustainability Consultant. In both of these cases, the individual will directly be involved with managing LEED project documentation and/or advising LEED project members on strategies to incorporate into their sustainable building project.

Finally, we showcased in our Best Jobs for LEED series the ways in which other professional occupations use LEED in their job responsibilities. Virtually anyone interested in improving environmental sustainability can benefit from the LEED skill set. There are applications for interior designers, pest control companies, plumbing contractors, product manufacturers, and real estate attorneys, even though these occupations don’t necessarily scream “building sustainability” at first glance.

To learn more about how LEED can align with your professional goals, you should enroll in a LEED Green Associate Exam Prep course today or call us at (800) 460-2575.

Register now for LEED Green Associate
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2017 NEC Code to be Covered on NABCEP Solar PV Exam

The solar certification exams developed by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) assess a candidate’s knowledge, skills, and abilities. This testable information is available on NABCEP’s Job Task Analysis (JTA) document, which outlines a wide variety of responsibilities that solar system installation professionals have. Concepts from the 2017 NEC code will soon join that outline.

It is expected that all individuals who achieve the advanced NABCEP PV Installation Professional Certification be familiar with and capable of executing all the tasks described in the NABCEP Job Task Analysis document.

If you’re new to solar, take a moment to browse our Solar Overview series to get an understanding of how you can add solar to your resume and your business.

Once you decide that NABCEP Certification is the right move for you, you should begin acquainting yourself with the various NABCEP designations available and the corresponding JTA documents.

About the NABCEP Job Task Analysis

According to NABCEP, the JTA documents “form the blueprint” for all NABCEP certification exams.

The NABCEP JTAs are updated every 3 years to incorporate changes made to the National Electric Code (NEC). The most recent iteration of the NABCEP PV Installation JTA covered the 2014 NEC. Starting January 3, 2018, the NABCEP PV Installation JTA (and thus, the certification exam) will cover 2017 NEC code concepts.

NABCEP JTA to cover 2017 NEC code

Qualifying for the NABCEP Certification Exams

As you research NABCEP Certification, you’ll find that there are a number of eligibility pathways and qualifying requirements. It’s important to review the NABCEP Certification Handbook to get a sense of which qualifying category best fits your education and experience.

Oftentimes, candidates for the NABCEP PV Installation Professional exam will need:

  • 58 hours of training (where 40 hours cover advanced solar installation/design concepts)
  • passing score on the NABCEP PV Associate exam
  • an OSHA 10 card or equivalent
  • work experience totaling at least 6 Project Credits

Since the NABCEP PV Installation JTA for the 2018 certification exams is already updated and published, it’s important to pursue solar training that covers the 2017 NEC code.

How to Learn the 2017 NEC Code

At Everblue, we’re pleased to announce that we have updated our solar training program to reflect the 2017 NEC code changes so that NABCEP candidates have access to the most up-to-date information.

Specifically, our NABCEP PV Installation Professional Exam Prep has been designed to align with the eligibility requirements for the NABCEP certification exams. With over 100 hours of solar training concepts covered, the NABCEP PV Installer program is the gold standard for convenience; we offer training in live and online formats. As soon as you enroll, you gain instant access to the online training so you can begin learning right away!

Give us a call at (800) 460-2575 to learn how you can work toward a NABCEP solar certification.

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Who Should Become a Green Rater

You should pursue the LEED Green Rater designation if you are interested in taking your LEED knowledge to the next level and making an important impact on residential projects.

The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards are famously used on commercial building structures. However, the LEED green building standards can also be used on residential structures, such as single-family and multi-family homes – even whole neighborhoods!

What is a LEED Green Rater?

LEED Green Raters provide verification services on each and every LEED residential project.

They are responsible for:

  • Verifying that the project was designed and built to the rigorous requirements of the LEED rating system through documentation review and on-site verification
  • Assembling the project submittal package for submission to GBCI for certification review

Project teams interested in certifying a residential project must contact a LEED Green Rater.

green home rater job image

How to Become a LEED Green Rater

A candidate should be well-versed in energy-efficient construction practices and LEED.

To become a LEED Green Rater, an individual must:

  • Participate in a free 5-hour online course about LEED v4 residential rating systems
  • Participate in a 1.5-day LEED Green Rater Workshop and complete an online assessment
  • Hold a current LEED AP BD+C or LEED AP Homes credential
  • Demonstrate at least 3 years of work experience as a residential contractor, with 2 professional references
  • Earn at least 1 CEU for each of the following topics: building envelope, heat transfer, moisture transfer, and air transfer
  • Complete the LEED Green Rater application

As you can see from the eligibility requirements, a LEED Green Rater has a vast background in residential construction and energy efficiency.

The first two requirements are fairly easy and straightforward to achieve. But how do you get to the point of being a LEED AP BD+C or LEED AP Homes credential holder? Keep reading!

How to Become a LEED AP Credential Holder

Given that a LEED Green Rater is required to be involved with the project from the design phase through to the construction phase, it’s important to follow through with the traditional LEED credentialing process in addition to the LEED Green Rater process.

Individuals wanting to advertise their LEED expertise and work on LEED building projects in a design, construction, or operations capacity will participate in the traditional LEED credentialing process, which is as follows:

Step 1:  Take & pass the LEED Green Associate exam

Step 2:  Remain at this level or upgrade to a LEED AP with a Specialty

There are five LEED AP Specialties available, each with a unique exam:

  • Building Design + Construction
  • Operations + Maintenance
  • Interior Design + Construction
  • Neighborhood Development
  • Homes

As you can see, a candidate must first pass the LEED Green Associate exam and then take & pass the LEED AP specialty exam.

In this case, if your goal is to become a LEED Green Rater, you would set your sights on the LEED AP BD+C exam or the LEED AP Homes exam to earn those relevant specialties.

The LEED AP BD+C credential is designed for new construction or major renovations of single-family homes and multifamily residential buildings of one to three stories. The LEED BD+C rating system can also be applied to multi-family residential buildings of four or more occupiable stories above grade.

The LEED AP Homes credential is designed for single-family homes, low-rise multi-family (one to three stories) or mid-rise multi-family (four to six stories).

Are You Ready to Become a LEED Green Rater?

If you’re relatively new to the residential energy efficiency industry, you might want to take our BPI Building Science Principles course, which covers the building science concepts mentioned above (building envelope, heat transfer, moisture transfer, and air transfer).

If you’ve already satisfied the building science requirement and work experience requirements, you’ll definitely need to earn a LEED credential. Remember to start at the LEED Green Associate level and then upgrade to either LEED AP BD+C or LEED AP Homes.

Still have questions about LEED Green Rater? Give us a call at (800) 460-2575!

Register now for LEED Green Associate Exam Prep
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LEED Certify a Product: What You Need to Do

Are you a product manufacturer being asked by a client to show how your product is compliant with the LEED Certification requirements? If so, you may be wondering how you can quickly LEED certify a product. However, this is not what is being asked of you.

The U.S. Green Building Council (who created the LEED green building standards) does not certify or endorse products. Let me say that again. LEED Certification for products does not exist.

Here’s an example of false LEED product advertising:

LEED Certification for products does not exist

LEED Certification for Products Does Not Officially Exist

What’s happening is that project teams working on LEED building projects are required to use particular types of products that align with the environmentally conscious LEED standards. But the products themselves are not “LEED Certified.”

Products can only be certified or recognized by other green industry programs or labels, such as the popular Energy Star label.

There is a lot of confusion about how to get LEED Certification for products. Here is an overview of the steps that should be taken to answer your clients’ questions:

Step 1:  Learn about the LEED credits & how your product may satisfy requirements

Step 2:  Apply for a green product label that is approved by the LEED standards

How Your Product Aligns with LEED

The best route for product manufacturers to join the LEED industry is to fully commit to learning the LEED standards. Unfortunately it’s not as simple as a straightforward checklist with hard requirements you must meet. There are varying levels of compliance that your product may fall in. The LEED system is designed to be flexible in this way.

To learn the intricacies of the LEED standard, you should enroll in a LEED Exam Prep course and consider becoming a LEED Green Associate accredited professional. Regardless of whether you actually go on to take the LEED Green Associate exam and pursue the professional credential, the LEED knowledge will be massively helpful for determining how your product is or can be compliant with the LEED Certification standards.

After you learn the LEED information, you’ll feel more comfortable navigating the LEED credits and understanding exactly how your product can help those working on LEED projects.

Which Green Product Label Should You Pursue?

As you participate in LEED education, you’ll find that the LEED standards list several green labeling programs for products. There are green product labels for electronics, appliances, home office equipment, wood and forestry products, paints, and cleaning products.

Specifically, you’ll find that the various green labels often refer to specific types of products. In other words, it’s not as simple as just pursuing the Energy Star label for any and all products. Maybe your product aligns better with the Forest Stewardship Council.

We discuss all of the green product labels in our LEED Green Associate Exam Prep course, providing you a sense of which green labeling program best aligns with your product and how you can maximize that information as a sales tool.

For more information about LEED Certification or the LEED professional credentialing process, please call us at (800) 460-2575.

Register now for LEED Green Associate
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Matt Roseman Joins Everblue as BPI and RESNET Program Manager

We are pleased to announce the hiring of Matt Roseman, who will join the team at our NC headquarters and manage the BPI Certification and RESNET HERS Rater training programs.

Within this role, Matt will teach classes on how to become a certified home energy auditor under the BPI and RESNET technical standards. He will also manage the logistical operations and curriculum development for the respective programs.

”This role attracted me because it gives me the opportunity to quickly become a critical team member at the largest training company of BPI energy auditor certification and HERS Rater certification programs,” he said. “It’s an incredible opportunity to build on my knowledge and professional experience as a home energy auditor while also working with Everblue’s network of experienced instructors to offer impactful home performance training nationwide.”

Matt Roseman headshotMatt Roseman comes to Everblue with over five years of experience in energy efficiency and program development. Most recently, Matt owned and operated SEEC Building Performance Tech. There, he and his team provided BPI & HERS testing, HVAC design, rebate processing, and energy modeling for home performance contractors and their customers. Matt developed and implemented both the business and marketing strategies in addition to developing and maintaining relationships with customers, partners, and his team.

The Everblue team first crossed paths with Matt in 2011, when he completed our corporate sustainability training program. With plans to start an energy auditing company, Matt returned to Everblue in 2015 to pursue BPI training and certification. He enrolled in the BPI Building Analyst, Envelope & IDL Combo program in order to acquire as much knowledge as possible.

Experience as a small business owner will enable Matt to look at Everblue’s current training formats with fresh eyes and help the programs to evolve and align with the interests of industry professionals who are also looking to use energy auditor training to build a business.

Matt’s varied experiences both in the field and in the classroom have allowed him to seamlessly transfer into his current position with Everblue. He has hit the ground running and has already started auditing several of Everblue’s live training courses across the country. His next project will be to create an online HERS Rater training course in anticipation of expected RESNET changes.

”Everblue’s vision of embracing cutting-edge technologies and ensuring that innovation is dispersed to the masses aligns closely with my personal vision and gives the work I do for Everblue meaning,” he said. “Moreover, I am extremely excited to work in such an entrepreneurial environment and within the creative culture Everblue has created. I am looking forward to seeing what the future holds.”

We’re equally excited about having Matt’s subject-matter expertise in-house. If you speak with Matt on LiveChat or on the phone, please join us in welcoming him to the team!

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Qualify for NABCEP Certification in 3 Months

Whether you are new to solar or an experienced solar-industry worker, there are specific eligibility requirements that all NABCEP exam candidates must meet. That said, it is possible to qualify for NABCEP Certification in as little as 3 months.

Who is NABCEP?

NABCEP stands for the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners, and this is a nonprofit organization that develops professional certification programs for solar energy professionals.

NABCEP logo

NABCEP writes and manages the technical standards and eligibility requirements for several certification exams. The two most popular exams are:

  • NABCEP PV Associate
  • NABCEP PV Installation Professional

    • The NABCEP Associate program recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge of the fundamental principles of the application, design, installation, and operation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.

    The NABCEP PV Installation Professional Certification enables solar installation professionals to stand out from their competition using a designation that denotes quality and expertise.

    How to Qualify for NABCEP PV Associate

    There are two pathways to qualifying for the NABCEP PV Associate exam:

  • Complete training from a NABCEP Registered Associate Provider (such as Everblue)
  • Document at least 6 months of full time equivalent work experience in a job that is directly involved with solar electric energy

    • At Everblue, we offer a 40-hour online program called NABCEP PV Associate. This self-paced webinar program aligns perfectly with the NABCEP PV Associate Learning Objectives and has yielded a 90% pass rate for exam candidates since its debut in 2010.

    Expected Prep Time: 40 hours

    Expected Fees: $799

  • $599 for the NABCEP PV Associate training
  • $200 for the NABCEP PV Associate exam

    • How to Qualify for NABCEP PV Installation Professional

    According to the NABCEP Certification Handbook, there are several ways that an individual can qualify to sit for the NABCEP PV Installation Professional exam.

    Boiled down to the lowest common denominator, the most straightforward pathway includes the following requirements:

    Training

  • Participate in a minimum of 58 hours of solar PV training
  • 40 of the 58 hours must cover advanced solar PV installation/design concepts
  • remaining 18 hours can come from the entry-level Associate coursework IF the candidate passes the NABCEP PV Associate exam
  • Obtain an OSHA 10 Construction Safety card

    • Work Experience

  • Complete solar installations equaling at least 6 Project Credits

    • As you can see, there are eligibility requirements that fall under a Training umbrella and eligibility requirements that fall under a Work Experience umbrella.

    At Everblue, we offer NABCEP-approved solar training that satisfies the Training requirements. To get started on these requirements, the best training package to consider is the NABCEP PV Installation Prep Course. This program offers 100+ hours of solar training that will instantly qualify candidates for the NABCEP PV Associate exam and provide advanced solar installation/design training and OSHA 10 online training.

    To satisfy the Work Experience requirements, we recommend that candidates volunteer with GRID Alternatives or seek apprenticeship opportunities.

    Expected Prep Time: 468 hours (equal to approx. 12 weeks or 3 months)

  • Training: 58 hours of solar training + 10 hours of OSHA safety training
  • Work Experience: The time it takes to work on a solar installation project will vary. You can expect to devote an average of 80 hours (2 full-time work weeks) for a residential solar panel installation project. If you need to complete 5 installations, this may result in 400 hours of work experience, or 10 full-time work weeks. With regard to Project Credits, you can earn 2 Project Credits for PV systems sized 1-999 kW. You can earn 3 Project Credits for PV systems sized 1 mW and up.

    • Again, the time it takes someone to work on a solar installation project will vary and will be dependent upon whether the individual is already employed in the solar industry. 2-3 months is an optimistic estimate.

    It may be quicker for solar installers already working in this industry to satisfy the Work Experience requirement, compared to an individual transitioning into this industry.

    GRID Alternatives offers a program specifically designed to help NABCEP exam candidates satisfy the Work Experience requirement.

    Given that many individuals prepare for and take the NABCEP PV Associate exam first, in order to qualify later for the NABCEP PV Installation Professional exam, we must factor those 40 hours into our overall expected prep time.

    For someone new to the solar industry, then, you should anticipate spending at least 3 months preparing for the first-tier and second-tier NABCEP Certification exams.

    Start Now: Register for Everblue’s NABCEP PV Installer package, which contains pre-approved Training hours for the PV Associate and PV Installation Professional exams.

    Learn more about Everblue's NABCEP Certification Training
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