There’s a lot to know when it comes to being an energy advisor. When Natural Resources Minister Seamus O'Regan made the Greener Homes Initiative announcement back in May, he mentioned that a person already in the industry could get trained in a week. While that’s technically true, it’s not real life! There’s a learning process that goes along with the training.
This is the second article in a series on the business of being an EA, giving a better idea of what it will take to become an energy advisor.
Is there a Fast Track for Energy Advisors?
Not really. Becoming an EA is a three to six month process for most Service Organizations (who oversee file submissions to NRCan). There’s also a two-step exam process before you can get out in the field.
The Foundation Exam tests your understanding of the residential construction and renovation industry, math skills, plans reading skills, and understanding of building science.
The Energy Advisor (HOUSE) Exam tests your understanding of the EnerGuide for Houses Rating Service, the technical requirements of the role of the EA for both new construction and existing houses, administration and quality assurance protocols. You can’t take the Energy Advisor Exam without passing the Foundation Exam.
You don’t have to do any training for the Foundation Exam - you can challenge it if you’ve got a strong industry background, but you cannot challenge the Energy Advisor Exam. Classroom-based training or preparation for both exams can range from 5 to 10 days. If you’re taking our on-demand exam prep, we recommend that you allow a month to get through the Foundation level materials and at least six weeks to get through the Energy Advisor (House) materials. There’s a lot to know in order to pass both exams.
After passing both exams, you’re a candidate EA, and now you have to complete a minimum of 5 probationary files to become a registered EA. Some Service Organizations require a larger number of files with oversight from a senior EA before you’re allowed out in the wild by yourself.
What Does it Cost for Training?
Rates for classroom and virtual classroom training vary. You can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $3,400 for a Foundation and Energy Advisor Exam Prep package. The wide range is because there is no single curriculum for training organizations to follow. Some offer fewer options than others, some offer a menu of training services, some offer a full meal deal. Blue House Energy’s on-demand courses come in somewhere in the middle: $2,140 for both exam prep programs in a bundle.
Get in touch with Carla Harder who can answer all of your questions BHE on-demand Foundation and Energy Advisor Exam Prep!
