ASHRAE has published a new Standard, ANSI/ASHRAE/ACCA Standard 211-2018, that significantly impacts energy audits in commercial buildings. We are pleased to report that certified Energy Management Professionals (EMPs) meet the definition of "qualified energy auditors" within the Standard due to the EMP's recognition by DOE's Better Buildings Workforce Program.

EMPs are encouraged to emphasize our inclusion in this important new Standard to clients, partners and associates going forward. ASHRAE's inclusion of the EMP is due in large measure to our members' efforts in educating the 211P Committee on the quality of the program and its commissioning-based approach to energy management. EMA appreciates the Committee's cooperation and looks forward to continued involvement with ASHRAE on issues relating to energy efficiency and system optimization.

The purpose of this standard is to establish consistent practices for conducting and reporting energy audits for commercial buildings.The new Standard:

• defines the procedures required to perform Energy Audit Levels 1, 2, and 3;
• provides a common scope of work for these audit levels for use by building owners and others;
• establishes consistent methodology and minimum rigor of analysis required; and
• establishes minimum reporting requirements for the results of energy audits.

The ANSI-accredited, DOE Better Buildings Workforce recognized EMP Certification has been aligned to conform with the requirements of the DOE Better Buildings Workforce Guidelines. Recognition in the program establishes EMPs as "qualified energy auditors" under the definitions contained the new 211 Standard.

Energy Management Association | energymgmt.org