How to get trained or accredited
APEL and Qualifications
Different levels of qualifications
Due to the nature and complexity of commercial buildings, the Government has introduced different levels of competence for Commercial Energy Assessors. The following is a quick synopsis of current Government thinking:
The levels of competence for Commercial Energy Assessors (CEA)
EPC Level 5 – uses dynamic simulation modelling (DSM) software to produce EPCs for very complex buildings, including those with large amounts of glass and those which are curved, and can be used for both new build and existing non dwellings.
EPC Level 4 – uses SBEM (Simplified Building Energy Model) software to produce EPCs for complex buildings without those special features covered by Level 5, and can be used for both new build and existing non dwellings.
EPC Level 3 – uses SBEM software to produce EPCs for simple buildings but for existing buildings only.
DEC Level 3 – uses approved operational rating (based on measured energy consumption) software to produce a DEC and Advisory Report (AR) which is mandatory for public buildings with a floor area greater than 1000 square meters.
How to get trained and accredited
There are two principal routes to accreditation. One involves undertaking a new qualification and the other (only available to experienced persons), which is called the Approved Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) route.
New entrant qualifications – Elmhurst is able to accept applications for accreditation from persons who have successfully gained one of the approved qualifications. To join new entrant candidates must initial complete a formal qualification before appling for accreditation. Once qualified - click here for Accreditation Application Form-
If you wish to undertake a new entrant’s qualification please contact one of the following third party providers:
This is not an exhaustive list of training providers, if you wish to consider further options, full details of all qualifications available in this sector can be obtained from the relevant awarding bodies (qualification providers) ABBE, City and Guilds and NFOPP.
APEL Options - If you are currently an experienced professional working in commercial buildings your existing experience may allow you to join the Elmhurst accreditation scheme via a fast track route. This is what Government refers to as APEL which enables applicants to demonstrate that they have met all the knowledge, understanding, requirements and performance criteria set out in the relevant National Occupational Standards (NOS).
Elmhurst currently offers the following specialist APEL accreditation options to service the various EPBD strands, which will be suitable for experienced practitioners, these include:
APEL, level 4 Commercial Energy Assessor on construction (new build)
APEL, Display Energy Certificates for use in Public Buildings
Elmhurst APEL level 4 Commercial Energy Assessor 'On Construction' (new build) only.
We are pleased to launch our new accreditation stream for Level 4 Commercial Energy Assessors NEW BUILD ONLY. This APEL route will enable experienced persons to produce EPCs for new commercial buildings on-construction using the SBEM model or approved equivalent. The application form details the proposed programme, highlighting entry requirements, as well as, aspects of top-up training and accreditation for Commercial Energy Assessors.
Please note that the APEL training route has been designed to suit people who have at least two years technical experience working on the design, construction and / or the energy assessment of commercial buildings, such as services engineers, architects, technologists, construction managers or building control etc. If you do not meet this requirement you will not be accepted on this APEL course at this time.
- click for further information and the Application Form –
Elmhurst APEL level 3 Display Energy Assessor for Public Buildings.
We are pleased to launch our new accreditation stream for Level 3 Display Energy Assessors. This APEL route will enable experienced persons to undertake Operational Ratings (ORs) and produce DECs and ARs which are mandatory for large public buildings. The application form details the proposed programme, highlighting entry requirements, as well as, aspects of top-up training and accreditation.
Please note in order to be eligible to apply for this route, individual candidates must be able to document their involvement, for at least two years in the previous five, experience in buildings management and or building energy management. For example Estate Facility Managers, Energy Managers/ Auditors, Building Surveyors, Service Engineers and other building professionals undertaking similar roles or activities. If you do not meet this requirement you will not be accepted on this APEL course at this time.
- click for further information and the Application Form -
For Further Scheme Details and Frequently Asked Questions -click here-