How to Be Building Performance Analyst - Energy Efficiency - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Apr 2, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The increased demand for energy efficiency has resulted in a growing need for Building Performance Analysts. These specialized professionals analyze the energy efficiency of buildings and develop strategies to improve their performance. They use a variety of tools such as audits, simulations, and energy use tracking to identify areas of improvement and develop solutions to reduce energy consumption.

Building Performance Analysts are also responsible for providing advice on green building technologies, best practices, and codes and standards. By identifying and utilizing more efficient methods, they can help reduce energy costs, improve the environment, and promote sustainability.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree in Building Science, Architecture, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. Many Building Performance Analyst positions require at least a Bachelors degree in one of the aforementioned fields.
Pursue an Energy Efficiency Certification. An Energy Efficiency Certification is a great way to demonstrate your knowledge of the energy efficiency industry and to increase your chances of getting a job as a Building Performance Analyst.
Develop an Understanding of Building Envelope and Building Performance Concepts. Building Performance Analysis requires an understanding of the building envelope and building performance concepts. Understanding these concepts will help you make more informed decisions about how to improve the efficiency of a building.
Obtain Experience in the Field. Building Performance Analysis requires experience in the field. To gain experience, consider working as an energy auditor, building inspector, or in a related position.
Utilize Energy Modeling Software. To become a successful Building Performance Analyst, you must be proficient in energy modeling software such as eQUEST or EnergyPlus. Familiarize yourself with the software and become comfortable using it.
Join Professional Organizations and Network. Joining professional organizations is a great way to stay up to date on the latest energy efficiency technologies and trends, as well as network with other professionals in the field. Consider joining organizations such as ASHRAE or USGBC.

The rising cost of energy and the need for sustainability has made energy efficiency increasingly important for businesses. To stay ahead and efficient, businesses must plan for energy efficiency by setting goals, monitoring progress, and making adjustments as needed. To achieve this, they need to employ a performance analyst who can measure the energy use of their buildings and recommend improvements.

This analyst can provide information on the most effective ways to reduce energy use, such as retrofitting old equipment, implementing energy-saving technologies, or improving insulation. By making these changes, businesses can reduce their energy costs and reduce their environmental impact. With an experienced performance analyst on the job, businesses can be sure to stay ahead and remain efficient in their energy use.

You may want to check Energy Modeler, Energy Project Manager, and Smart Grid and Renewable Energy Engineer for alternative.

Job Description

Develop, implement and manage energy efficiency strategies, programs, and projects.
Monitor and analyze building performance data to identify areas of potential energy saving opportunities.
Conduct energy audits and determine appropriate solutions to reduce energy use and improve building efficiency.
Develop and recommend measures to reduce energy consumption, optimize building systems, and reduce operational costs.
Collect and analyze energy usage data to identify trends, develop forecasts, and report findings to management.
Design and implement energy efficiency projects and initiatives.
Prepare energy efficiency reports, budgets and presentations for clients and management.
Research and recommend energy efficient products, materials, and technologies.
Develop performance goals and review progress towards achieving energy savings goals.
Work with contractors and vendors to ensure successful implementation of energy efficiency projects.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Technical knowledge of building systems, such as HVAC, lighting, and insulation
Knowledge of energy efficiency standards and building codes
Knowledge of energy management systems and best practices
Analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to evaluate and interpret complex data
Strong communication skills (oral and written)
Project management and organizational skills
Understanding of financial analysis and cost/benefit analysis
Ability to work with a variety of stakeholders
Familiarity with computer modeling tools, such as eQUEST, DOE-2, and IES Virtual Environment

Being a Performance Analyst for Energy Efficiency requires a range of technical and analytical skills. Analyzing energy performance requires an understanding of energy systems and how they interact with the environment and the building itself. It is essential to have a broad knowledge of building components, energy sources, and the process of energy management.

the Performance Analyst must be able to identify the root cause of energy inefficiencies and develop effective solutions. A good Performance Analyst must also be able to communicate their findings to stakeholders clearly and concisely. Finally, the ability to use software and data analysis tools is essential for identifying areas of improvement and providing helpful visualizations.

These combined skills enable the Performance Analyst to provide meaningful insights on energy efficiency and help organizations to reduce their energy consumption.

Geothermal Energy Field Technician, Clean Energy Specialist, and Environmental and Energy Engineer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have with energy efficiency and building performance analysis?
What techniques do you use to assess building performance and uncover energy efficiency opportunities?
How do you stay current on the latest energy efficiency trends and technologies?
What strategies have you used to raise energy efficiency awareness among clients?
How do you use data to identify energy inefficiencies and develop solutions?
What strategies have you used to reduce energy costs for clients?
Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot an issue with a buildings energy system.
What is your experience using energy modeling software?
What steps do you take to ensure the accuracy of your results and analysis?
How do you prioritize tasks related to building performance analysis?

Common Tools in Industry

Energy Audit Software. This software helps to analyze energy usage, identify inefficiencies and offer recommendations for improving energy efficiency in buildings. (eg: EnergyPlus, eQuest)
Building Simulation Software. This software enables architects and engineers to accurately model and assess the energy performance of a building before it is constructed. (eg: IES Virtual Environment, DesignBuilder)
Data Visualization Software. This software is used to create visual representations of energy use data, allowing performance analysts to quickly spot trends and anomalies. (eg: Tableau, Power BI)
Building Automation Systems. These systems allow users to monitor and control HVAC, lighting and other building systems remotely, allowing for more efficient energy usage. (eg: Johnson Controls Metasys, Siemens Desigo Insite)
Performance Monitoring Tools. These tools are used to track energy usage data in real-time, enabling performance analysts to quickly detect problems and assess the effectiveness of energy efficiency measures. (eg: Wattstopper Legrand, BuildingIQ)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE)
Alliance to Save Energy
Building Performance Institute
International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol (IPMVP)
Efficiency Valuation Organization (EVO)
Association of Energy Engineers (AEE)
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
US Green Building Council (USGBC)
Green Building Initiative (GBI)
International Institute for Energy Conservation (IIEC)

We also have Wind Energy Technician, Energy Analyst, and Carbon and Renewable Energy Analyst jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Building Energy Modeling. The process of creating a computer-generated simulation of a buildings energy performance, using energy modeling software.
Building Envelope. The physical barrier that separates the interior and exterior of a building, including walls, roof, ceiling, and floors.
Thermal Performance. The ability of a buildings envelope to control the movement of heat within the building.
HVAC System. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems used to control the temperature, humidity, and air quality in buildings.
Daylighting. The use of natural light to illuminate interior spaces.
Energy Audit. A comprehensive review of a buildings energy consumption, efficiency, and potential for improvement.
Commissioning. A process of verifying that all systems in a building are functioning properly, meeting design standards, and providing the desired level of performance.
LEED Certification. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification is a rating system for green buildings that assesses environmental performance in areas such as energy efficiency, water efficiency, and indoor environmental quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is Building Performance Analysis? A1: Building Performance Analysis is a process of evaluating the energy efficiency of a building in order to identify areas where improvements can be made to reduce energy consumption and costs. Q2: What is the purpose of energy efficiency analysis? A2: The purpose of energy efficiency analysis is to identify opportunities to reduce energy consumption and costs by making improvements to the building's design, construction, operation, and maintenance. Q3: What kind of data is used for energy efficiency analysis? A3: Energy efficiency analysis typically involves collecting and analyzing data related to the building's design, construction, operation, and maintenance, such as energy bills, utility records, equipment specifications, and building occupancy. Q4: What are the benefits of energy efficiency analysis? A4: The benefits of energy efficiency analysis include reduced energy costs, improved comfort and health in the building, increased resale value, and a reduced environmental impact. Q5: Who can perform energy efficiency analysis? A5: Energy efficiency analysis can be performed by qualified professionals such as Building Performance Analysts, Architects, Engineers, and Energy Consultants.

Web Resources

Building energy efficiency: The secret to success online.stanford.edu
WSU Energy Program > Building Efficiency - Washington State www.energy.wsu.edu
Buildings & Energy Efficiency | Energy - Stanford University energy.stanford.edu