Certified Energy Efficiency Specialist (CEES)™
The Certified Energy Efficiency Specialist (CEES) certification is a leading professional credential developed to equip engineers, technicians, energy consultants, and sustainability professionals with the expertise needed to identify, design, and implement energy efficiency solutions across various industrial, commercial, and institutional sectors. As the global demand for sustainable energy practices continues to rise, organizations are increasingly seeking qualified specialists who can deliver measurable reductions in energy consumption while improving operational performance and reducing carbon footprints. The CEES program provides comprehensive training in the technical, operational, and strategic aspects of energy efficiency—empowering professionals to create high-impact energy-saving programs backed by data-driven insights and best practices.
Participants in the CEES certification gain a deep understanding of energy systems, performance benchmarking, and efficiency optimization across electrical and mechanical domains. The program emphasizes both foundational knowledge and real-world application, covering areas such as HVAC system tuning, lighting retrofits, process optimization, building envelope design, and renewable energy integration. Whether working to improve facility operations, reduce utility costs, meet environmental compliance targets, or support broader ESG goals, CEES-certified professionals are prepared to lead sustainability initiatives that deliver long-term energy and cost savings.
Certification Program Objectives:
Upon completing the Certified Energy Efficiency Specialist (CEES) program, participants will be able to:
- Understand Energy Management Fundamentals: Develop core knowledge in energy auditing, benchmarking, and efficiency strategies across multiple energy-intensive systems.
- Analyze and Improve Electrical Systems: Gain expertise in evaluating electrical loads, controls, lighting, and motors to reduce energy consumption and enhance performance.
- Optimize Mechanical Systems: Identify opportunities for efficiency improvement in mechanical systems such as HVAC, pumps, chillers, compressors, and process equipment.
- Integrate Renewable Energy Solutions: Learn how to assess, implement, and manage solar, wind, and other renewable technologies within overall energy plans.
- Evaluate Building Performance: Understand how building envelope, insulation, glazing, and thermal properties impact energy performance and indoor comfort.
- Apply Integrated Energy Strategies: Create holistic, cross-system strategies for continuous energy optimization using digital tools, automation, and policy-driven frameworks.
Certification Eligibility Criteria:
To apply for certification from The American Institute of Business and Management (AIBM) and its allied institutions, candidates must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- A Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution
And/or
- 2 to 5 years of relevant work experience in the related professional field.
Note: Applicants who do not hold a Bachelor’s degree but possess exceptional professional experience and hold significant positions within their organizations in a relevant field may also be considered for certification on a case-by-case basis, subject to the approval of the AIBM evaluation committee.
Certifying Examination:
- To be certified as CEES, student should take up a 1.5 hours online exam conducted by AIEM.
- The qualifying exam would consist of 50 multiple choice questions, testing core certification modules.
- Professionals with relevant experience and other qualifying criteria may be exempted from the examination.
Certification Modules:
- Module 1: Fundamentals of Energy Management
- Module 2: Electrical Systems and Controls
- Module 3: Mechanical Systems Optimization
- Module 4: Renewable Energy Integration
- Module 5: Building Performance and Envelope
- Module 6: Integrated Energy Management Strategies
* The modules of the certification are constantly updated and are subject to change.
Who Should Do This Certification:
The CEES certification is designed for professionals who are directly or indirectly involved in improving energy efficiency, reducing operational costs, and driving sustainable practices across buildings, plants, and infrastructure. It is especially valuable for individuals looking to build or formalize their expertise in energy systems optimization.
- Energy Managers and Engineers: Professionals responsible for auditing, monitoring, and optimizing energy consumption in facilities will gain strategic and technical depth through the CEES program.
- Facility and Plant Managers: Those overseeing building or industrial operations can benefit from targeted approaches to reduce utility costs and enhance system performance.
- HVAC and Mechanical Engineers: Engineers who design, operate, or maintain mechanical systems will learn best practices in energy-efficient configurations and retrofits.
- Electrical Engineers and Technicians: Individuals managing lighting systems, power distribution, or motor loads will benefit from tools and methods for reducing electrical energy use.
- Sustainability Coordinators and ESG Professionals: Specialists in environmental programs, reporting, or green building initiatives can integrate CEES principles to meet performance goals and compliance standards.
- Architects and Building Designers: Professionals involved in building design and retrofitting will gain insights into envelope design, insulation, and system integration for energy efficiency.
- Renewable Energy Consultants: Those advising or implementing solar, wind, and hybrid systems will benefit from understanding how renewables fit into broader efficiency strategies.
- Government and Utility Program Officers: Public-sector professionals responsible for managing energy policies, incentive programs, or infrastructure upgrades can apply CEES principles to their initiatives.
- Contractors and Energy Service Providers (ESCOs): Companies offering energy performance solutions can use CEES to train staff and standardize energy-efficient practices for client projects.
- Students and Career Changers in Energy Sector: Individuals aiming to enter the energy efficiency or green technology industry can use CEES as a solid foundation for technical and career development.
The CEES certification prepares professionals to lead energy transformation efforts, reduce environmental impact, and deliver sustainable value across facilities, systems, and sectors—making it a vital credential for the future of efficient and responsible energy use.