A Certified Energy Manager (CEM) certification is a globally recognized certification for energy management. In this guide, we will explore the key aspects of CEM certification, including its significance, steps required for certification, benefits of implementation, and more.
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By Rick van Echtelt
December 7, 2023 7 min read
A Certified Energy Manager (CEM) is a certification offered by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). It recognizes an individual’s expertise to optimize energy performance in a facility, building, or industrial plant.
The certification encompasses all areas of energy performance, including:
CEM-certified individuals are equipped to optimize energy usage, reduce costs, and implement effective energy management strategies across diverse industries and sectors.
Energy engineers, facility managers, and sustainability specialists benefit from obtaining a Certified Energy Manager (CEM) certification. It is also valuable for organizations seeking expertise in optimizing energy use, conducting audits, and implementing sustainable practices. While not mandatory, it serves as a valuable credential demonstrating a high level of expertise in energy management.
To become a CEM, candidates must have a mix of education and work experience. For example, those without a degree must have 10 or more years of related work experience, while those with a four-year engineering or architectural degree – or a Professional Engineer (PE) or Registered Architect (RA) certification – must have three or more years of related working experience.
You can find full eligibility criteria for CEM certification on the AEE’s website. Eligible candidates must also take part in a CEM preparatory training program, which run year around and internationally.
Application and exam fees for CEM certification cost $500. There is a $250 exam retake fee. There is also the cost of the CEM training, which will vary depending on the program, but which typically cost between $2,000 and $5,000. Overall costs will vary for international candidates, who must attend a training program and take an exam administered by one of the AEE’s approved training partners.
A CEM certification must be renewed every three years at a cost of $300. To be eligible for renewal, candidates must earn 10 Continuing Education Units (CEU) or Professional Development Hours (PDH) during this time.
Candidates can earn hours or units through activities such as:
A CEM certification offers several benefits to employees and organizations. Some key advantages include the following.
CEM-certified professionals bring advanced skills and insights to optimize organizational processes, leading to heightened operational efficiency. This efficiency results in streamlined workflows, cost savings, and improved overall performance, directly benefiting the organization’s bottom line.
CEM certification equips employees with strategic management knowledge, enabling them to make informed decisions aligned with organizational goals. Organizations with CEM-certified staff experience more agile and effective decision-making processes, fostering adaptability in dynamic business environments.
CEM-certified professionals contribute to a culture of continuous improvement, motivating teams to work collaboratively towards common objectives. This certification fosters a shared understanding of best practices, leading to enhanced employee productivity and a cohesive work environment that is conducive to innovation and success.
Earning a CEM certification may pose several challenges to organizations. They include the following.
Organizations pursuing CEM certification may face challenges in allocating resources, both in terms of time and finances. Balancing certification efforts with daily operations requires careful planning to avoid disruptions, and organizations must navigate potential conflicts between certification goals and immediate operational needs.
Implementing CEM principles often necessitates organizational change, which can encounter resistance from staff accustomed to existing processes. Overcoming these challenges requires effective change management strategies and communication to ensure a smooth transition, preventing disruptions to productivity and morale.
Quantifying the return on investment (ROI) of CEM certification can be challenging, as the impact on organizational performance may not be immediately apparent. Organizations must develop robust metrics and measurement systems to track the tangible benefits of certification, demonstrating its value to stakeholders and justifying the associated investments.
Here are a few tips for preparing for CEM certification.
For more information and guidance on CEM certification, you can refer to the following resources.
Association of Energy Engineers. As the certifying body, the AEE’s website should act as the primary resource for those seeking information about CEM certification. The AEE’s in-depth FAQ for CEM certification is a great place to start here.
Approved training partners. CEM certification requires candidates to take part in a training program. The AEE has outlined a list of approved training partners for CEM certification for international candidates on its website.
Resources and study guides. The AEE also offers a wide range of resources and study guides to those seeking CEM certification.
AG5 stores all certifications in the cloud, providing all authorized personnel with access to the right version of approved certifications. This helps you easily keep track of all data and documentation related to CEM certifications across your organization.
Using AG5’s skills management software, you can monitor the status of any type of certification that is relevant to your workforce, leveraging intuitive dashboards that provide you with a clear understanding of exactly what is needed to keep your employees skilled and safe.
A CEM certification focuses on optimizing energy performance across various sectors, addressing energy conservation, efficiency, and sustainable practices.
Is CEM certification mandatory?A CEM certification is not mandatory. However, some industries or employers may require it for specific roles, emphasizing its importance in energy management and sustainability practices.
How long does it take to obtain a CEM certification?After going through a training program – which can be completed in as few as five days – candidates have three years to complete the CEM application and exam process.
