Renewable Energy Professional (REP)

Description

The REP™ programme is designed to recognise the expertise and experience of professionals involved in the specification and application of renewable and alternative energy technologies, assessment of renewable energy projects, and development of achievable low-carbon and sustainability goals for organisations.

REP™ is an international qualification programme for professionals, introduced in 2010 by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE), based in the USA. The training is presented over 3 days and explores various forms of low-carbon energy sources as well as the environmental impacts of alternative energy, followed by a voluntary examination which could lead to international certification with the AEE.

Course Outline

• Renewable energy basics
• Latest developments in wind power systems, solar thermal heating, photovoltaic generation, geothermal heating/electrical production, biofuels, waste-to-energy systems, energy storage, fuel cells, hydroelectric power, and ocean thermal energy
• Assessments of the various forms of renewable energy
• Case examples of renewable energy projects
• Strengths and weaknesses of renewable energy applications
• Using renewable energy solutions in building applications
• Opportunities and making a business case for using renewables
• Economic issues, financial methodologies and incentives
• Approval processes and installation
• Lessons learned and pitfalls to avoid

Steps to Certification

1. Attend the REP™ training course with an AEE approved training partner.
2. Write the REP™ examination and attain a 70%+ pass mark.
3. Complete your REP™ certification application and return it to your training provider timeously.
4. The local and international REP™ Board will review your application.
5. Your training provider will advise you of the Board's decision.

Outcomes

Delegates will have a full understanding of the range of renewable energy resources available, be able to assess the applicability of each for suitable applications, and understand the economic issues surrounding renewables within the business environment.

Delegate Profile

There are no pre-requisites to attend the training course — it is open to all interested parties. Pre-requisites only apply when a candidate wishes to write the examination and apply for international certification. Ideal for:

• Persons with energy management or renewable/alternative energy experience seeking a recognised qualification
• Architects, built environment, engineering, and environmental graduates
• Those needing recognition as professionals in the renewable energy industry
• Persons that need to find ways of providing alternative energy through biomass, biofuel, solar, or other renewable sources

Basic Skill Requirements

Basic problem-solving skills, including quick and accurate use of a hand calculator.

Examination

A 4-hour voluntary examination may be written on the next day or a later date, subject to pre-application and registration. Pre-registration and 85%+ attendance of class-based training are required. An alternative examination day may be registered for within three years of attending the course. Rewrites are permitted within three years and must be written at least 60 days apart.

All delegates attending more than 85% of the REP® training course will receive a certificate of attendance with ECSA CPD credits.

Eligibility For Certification

Each REP™ candidate must attend the REP™ training programme, pass the 4-hour written examination with 70%, and meet one of the following criteria:

• A 4-year degree in engineering, architecture, science, business, or related field, with 2 years of experience in renewables or a related industry
• A 2-year technical degree with 5 years of experience in renewables or a related industry
• 10 or more years of verified experience in renewables or a related industry
• Current status of Certified Energy Manager (CEM®)

Re-certification is required every 3 years subject to participation in the AEE continuing education program (CEP).