Applications Now Open: Pilot Exams for Home Energy Professional EA and QCI Certifications 

Are you ready to take the next step in your career as a Home Energy Professional? AEE, an approved certification body for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), is now accepting applications for its pilot exams for the Energy Auditor (EA) and Quality Control Inspector (QCI) certifications!

The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is a federal program that enhances energy efficiency in low-income homes, reducing energy costs and improving living conditions. It supports 8,500 jobs annually, delivering services to 30,000 homes, and has helped over 7 million families since 1976. In support of quality work and a qualified workforce, WAP established nationally recognized workforce credentials, aiming to prepare a skilled workforce for a thriving home retrofit market. 

These pilot exams are part of AEE’s work as a newly licensed certification body under the DOE’s Home Energy Professional (HEP) scheme. AEE’s entry as a certification body brings additional pathways for professionals in the WAP network and residential energy efficiency field. These pilot exams are based on the updated Job Task Analyses (JTAs) announced in Weatherization Memorandum 126 and are designed to ensure future AEE certification exams are valid, fair, and aligned with current standards.

Energy Auditor (EA) Certification 

An EA evaluates potential health and safety concerns, durability, comfort, and energy use in single-family homes. They conduct advanced diagnostic tests, analyze data, and create energy models to recommend improvements. 

To earn the Energy Auditor (EA) certification through AEE, candidates will demonstrate their expertise through two comprehensive exams: a multiple-choice assessment and an innovative virtual simulation. While traditional programs require candidates to visit a physical location for practical assessment, AEE offers an exclusive alternative. Our simulation exam takes place in a fully immersive virtual environment, allowing candidates to walk through a virtual home, identify energy inefficiencies, while demonstrating their ability to collect relevant information and conduct diagnostic tests—all from the convenience of their own space. This approach eliminates logistical barriers and provides future auditors with certification exam experience in a dynamic, interactive setting. 

Learn more about the requirements and apply here.

Nota: The EA certification is different from AEE’s Auditor Energético Certificado (CEA) , which focuses on commercial and industrial facilities. EA is tailored to the residential sector, particularly under the U.S. Department of Energy’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP). 

Quality Control Inspector (QCI) Certification 

A QCI reviews, inspects, and verifies the quality and completion of energy retrofit work to ensure safety, durability, and efficiency for homeowners. They conduct site visits, complete diagnostic testing, and evaluate work practices. 

To become certified with the QCI micro credential, candidates must hold an active EA credential and complete a 50-question multiple choice exam. 

 Learn more about the pre-requisite requirements and apply here. 

Applications for the pilot exams will be available in English and Spanish. Apply today for either the EA or QCI certification pilot exams to take the next step in your career as a certified Home Energy Professional! 

This is a limited-time opportunity for qualified professionals who meet the scheme pre-requisite requirements to be among the first to earn these credentials—at no cost. Application and exam fees are waived for all approved pilot candidates.

Why Participate in the Pilot?

Participation in the pilot exam helps: 

• Establish a fair and realistic passing score based on candidate performance
• Validate the quality, clarity, and relevance of the exam content
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of nationally recognized Home Energy Professional credentials

Successful candidates will be among the first to earn the credential(s), valid for five years, while also helping strengthen the national residential energy workforce. Spots are limited, and the pilot window will close quickly. Apply today! 

About the Association of Energy Engineers: 

 AEE, founded in 1977, is a non-profit association of 17,000 members and 32,000 active certifications in over 133 countries, dedicated to energy savings. AEE has been a leader in energy management for 40+ years, offering accredited and internationally recognized certification programs, afiliación, y capacitación.