However, determining the right type of energy to use and its cost/tax implications can be daunting given the numerous forms of energy available today. With that in mind, here are all the key facts to know about energy management consultants.
Energy Management Consultant Job Description
The job description of an energy management consultant varies widely from one industry to the next. However, there are certain duties that are common across board. In general, it is the duty of professionals with this title to ensure that the organizations they work for acquire and use energy efficiently.
To achieve this goal, they carry out thorough analysis of all energy options and offer their employers advice on the benefits of adopting low-cost alternatives. This is in addition to promoting and touting the benefits of adopting/using energy that generates a low carbon dioxide footprint and meets federal guidelines on greenhouse gas emissions.
Another responsibility is developing and implementing policies/strategies to cut energy consumption across an organization. For instance, championing the replacement of old appliances or equipment that consume a lot of energy with newer and more energy efficient ones. In the same vein, one will monitor energy usage and benchmark it against industry standards or federal energy conservation guidelines.
More importantly, it is the duty of an energy management consultant to carry out thorough analysis of potential energy savings, tax implications, maintenance costs, up-front capital costs, and future salvage value associated with any energy related project or purchase of devices/equipment that use energy. This includes purchasing lighting appliances like bulbs, HVAC units, and electronics equipment.
Finally, A professional in this field will collect, monitor, and keep records of energy data from various market and government sources such as the US Energy Information Administration (EIA). This also means keeping abreast of new or mooted legislative efforts related to energy usage, conservation, and pricing.
What It Takes To Be an Energy Management Consultant
Although having a background in the energy industry can be helpful, it is not necessary. Nevertheless, you should have a good grasp of both regulated and deregulated US energy markets. In addition, most employers require job applicants to have at least a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, or a technical field. This qualification is only good enough to get you a low-level entry job. If you aspire to rise to the top, you must acquire an MBA specializing in management at some point.
Conclusion
If you would like to pursue a career in the field of energy management consulting, do not be afraid to start at the bottom and work your way to the top. Your daily duties will include championing the adoption and use of low cost energy alternatives that generate minimal greenhouse gases.