Update: Nov 2024
If you’re aiming to become an Energy Advisor, Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) requires that you first pass the Foundation Exam.
You don’t need to know anything about energy modelling or the role of an Energy Advisor to pass the Foundation exam. What you do need is a good handle on construction technology and energy efficiency.
The Energy Advisor Handbook from NRCan gives you a general overview.
What is a Registered Energy Advisor?
Energy Advisors conduct energy audits, carry out energy modelling, provide expert energy advice, and assist building owners and occupants in reducing energy consumption and costs. Their expertise spans across new and existing homes, making them invaluable in promoting energy-efficient practices in low-rise housing.
A Registered Energy Advisor is a professional who has passed both the Foundation Level and House exams administered by Natural Resources Canada.
Foundation Level Exam
The Foundation Level exam is the first step on the path to becoming a Registered Energy Advisor.
Although the competency profile for Foundation Level includes communication and computer skills, these are not assessed during the exam. Foundation level exam questions cover:
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Math: calculating perimeter, area, and volume ('numeracy')
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Construction technology
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Building science
Exam Format and Content
You have three hours to complete 150 questions in a multiple choice exam format.
This is a tough exam.
Key topics covered in the exam include the building envelope, air conditioning, heating, ventilation, and indoor air quality.
Preparing for the Exam
Preparing for the Energy Advisor exam requires a strategic approach that combines knowledge and practical experience. Hands-on experience in home construction and renovation is invaluable, as it helps solidify your understanding of key concepts.
Start by thoroughly studying the competencies and learning objectives identified in the Foundation Level Competency Profile.
Consider enrolling in a training course or workshop to gain deeper insights and structured guidance. Additionally, access online resources such as study guides and practice exams to supplement your preparation. This multifaceted approach will ensure you are well-equipped to tackle the exam with confidence.
How will Blue House Energy help me?
Blue House Energy CEO, Shawna Henderson, was one of the original Energy Advisors in Canada. She has written extensively for CMHC and Natural Resources Canada on housing performance and building science.
Canada is a big country. It’s hard to get to training if you live outside a major centre. That’s why Blue House Energy is focussed on delivering a high-quality, on-demand exam prep program that fits into your schedule.
Our online Energy Advisor exam prep program that cover the competencies you will require to pass the Foundation Exam. The course material is on-demand, with a monthly live Q&A session with building science expert and Red Seal carpenter, Les Shuert. You also get access to a community forum and other benefits. You can study at your own pace and on your own schedule, making it easier to balance Energy Advisor preparation with other commitments.
Benefits of Using Blue House Energy Exam Prep
Blue House Energy Advisor Exam Prep offers a comprehensive suite of resources designed to help you excel in the Energy Advisor exam. Our practice exams simulate the actual exam experience, so you can identify your strengths and weaknesses, enabling you to focus your study efforts where they are needed most.
Tips for Success
Achieving success in the Energy Advisor exam requires a well-rounded and disciplined approach. Here are some tips to for passing a timed exam:
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Start Early and Study Consistently: Give yourself ample time to review and practice the exam content.
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Use Diverse Study Resources: Incorporate textbooks, online resources, and practice exams into your study routine.
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Build a Strong Foundation: Focus on mastering building science principles and energy efficiency concepts.
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Practice with Sample Questions: Familiarize yourself with the exam format and content through regular practice.
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Leverage Exam Prep Resources: Use Blue House Energy’s comprehensive exam prep materials to enhance your studying and get comfortable with the exam format.
Foundation Backgrounder for the Win!
We don’t know what your situation is, what your experience level is, what your schedule is. There are many ways to learn, there’s lots of good, quality information out there, and we want you to be successful in your bid to become a certified Energy Advisor.
We have developed a free backgrounder that you can download to help identify gaps in your knowledge. Our Foundation Level Backgrounder means you don't have to do any searching or looking for accurate sources as you prepare for the exam.
Review all the topics under each competency, watch videos, read articles, and study guides.
Interested in finding out more?
Contact us and our program coordinator, Carla, will give you a call.
Comments (2)
I would love a copy of your study guide. I am writing on December the 29th
Foundation Study Guide for the Win!