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Energy analysts work in a variety of positions and industries. For example, many energy analysts work in engineering firms that specialize in building efficiency. They support, design, develop and assess energy conservation measures and programs. They may conduct energy audits, site assessments and building inspections to evaluate current energy usage and identify energy conservation opportunities. They may analyze utility bills using analytical tools to identify building energy consumption and opportunities for reduction. These energy analysts will develop energy management plans and determine the feasibility, energy savings and cost benefits of their recommendations. Energy analysts, as illustrated below, may also promote environmentalism or analyze complex data.
Career Overview – Climate Change Analyst
A climate change analyst uses their knowledge of energy data analysis and management to assist in project and proposal research. They prepare energy usage, pollution, policy and environmental science reports. For instance, their reports may include scientific concepts associated with the development and implementation of environmental regulations and industry best practices. They work with complex environmental energy data to create charts, figures, and tables that convey powerful truths and trends. Most climate change analysts work for nonprofits, think tanks and environmental consulting firms.
Climate change analysts are members of interdisciplinary teams of environmental engineers, scientists, attorneys, advocates and policy analysts. They provide consulting services to businesses, governments, industries and private citizen groups. They use environmental data and science to protect and maintain healthy environments through creative problem solving and interdisciplinary brainstorming. Climate change analysts usually have a strong background in science or engineering related to climate adaptation, environmental resilience and alternative energy sources.
Career Overview – Energy Management Research
Many research facilities and universities conduct energy management research into order to collect data used to promote efficiency, safety and sustainability. Energy management researchers will have a bachelor’s degree in a field related to math, business or engineering. They will have training in energy efficiency, auditing or management. Energy management researchers will be expected to have the Certified Energy Manager (CEM) professional certification through the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). Their primary job will be to use databases and spreadsheet software to collect, analyze and transform data.
They will generate graphs and develop complex models by combining energy data from various sources. Energy management researchers usually specialize in an area like natural gas, electric power, biomethane or carbon management. They use their knowledge of common energy and HVAC industry units, such as kWh, therms, and btus, to perform proposed energy savings estimates. They must have knowledge of HVAC equipment, such as motors and hot water loops, as well as industrial equipment such as boilers, cooling towers and pneumatic pumps. They have knowledge of energy efficient lighting technology, such as LEDs and motion sensors, as well as mechanical utilities systems and building lighting control systems.
Related Resource: Habitat and Water Quality Specialist
Energy analysts use their data evaluation and organizational skills to understand energy trends and translate them into meaningful, non-technical information. Employers will hire energy analysts who have a degree related to science, engineering, construction or information technology.