Specialised Occupational Diploma: Energy Advisor (Energy Management System )

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as an Energy Advisor (Energy Management System (EnMS)). A learner would acquire competencies to facilitate, guide and support the implementation of an Energy Management System (EnMS) including the internal EnMS audit and preparation for certification to capacitate and embed an understanding of energy performance measurement which supports a culture of energy performance improvement.

A qualified learner will be able to

• Facilitate the establishment of an Energy Management System (EnMS) based on assessment and analysis for continuous improvement of energy performance.
• Advise and facilitate the implementation of key processes of the Energy Management System (EnMS).
• Manage energy performance monitoring and reporting for continuous improvement.
• Maintain productive relationships, raise awareness and negotiate institutional commitment for EnMS performance.

Qualifying learner attributes

• Strategical,
• Problem solving,
• Creativity,
• Methodical,
• Technicality,
• Analytical and procedural.

Rationale

The need for this qualification is because of South Africa energy challenges yielding a critical need to address energy challenges. South Africa's energy sector is grappling with issues such as aging infrastructure, reliance on non-renewable energy sources, and frequent power outages. Specialists trained in EnMS can lead the transition to more reliable and sustainable energy systems.

This qualification also lends support to renewable energy initiatives because South Africa has a significant potential for renewable energy, particularly solar and wind power. The EnMS Specialist qualification will prepare professionals to spearhead renewable energy projects, contributing to the country's shift towards greener energy sources.

To support economic growth and employment opportunities, the shift towards energy efficiency and renewable energy is not only environmentally crucial but also a significant economic opportunity. This qualification will enable the creation of new jobs in the energy sector, driving economic growth and innovation whilst at the same time reducing carbon footprint. As part of its commitment to the Paris Agreement, South Africa aims to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. EnMS specialists will be instrumental in designing and implementing strategies that help achieve these emission reduction targets.

With evolving international and local energy policies, there is a growing need for experts who understand and can navigate the policy and regulatory frameworks. This qualification ensures that professionals are equipped with the necessary knowledge to ensure compliance and advise on policy formulation.

Energy security is a pressing concern for South Africa. By training EnMS specialists, the country can develop more robust systems that ensure a steady and sustainable energy supply, reducing dependency on imports and mitigating the risks of global market fluctuations. Sustainable development is key to South Africa's future. This qualification aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to affordable and clean energy, industry innovation, and sustainable cities and communities.

Specialists in EnMS can play a vital role in community-based projects, bringing sustainable energy solutions to rural and underserved areas, thereby promoting social equity and inclusive development.

Currently there are no other similar occupational qualifications for this specific specialisation area registered on the NQF. There are several energy related qualifications on the NQF, but they are in the HEQSF at either a lower or higher NQF Level and they are provider specific qualifications such as: Advanced Diploma in Mechanical Engineering in Renewable Energy, NQF Level 07, SAQA ID 101562, Bachelor of Commerce Honours: Energy Studies, NQF Level 08, SAQA ID 73761. These qualifications are more general in energy studies or renewable energy and not in energy advising with specific focus on energy management systems. The current higher education qualifications are also specifically focussed on sharing of principles and theory.

The qualification provides the energy sector with highly skilled professionals capable of implementing efficient and sustainable energy solutions, leading to advancements in energy technologies. Contributes to environmental sustainability and public awareness of energy efficiency, encouraging a shift towards more responsible energy consumption. Promotes economic growth by enabling energy-efficient practices, reducing operational costs, and fostering innovation in energy management solutions.

The typical learners who are professionals and practitioners for this qualification are with a background in engineering, environmental sciences, or related fields, seeking to specialise in energy management. They are likely to have experience in the energy sector and are seeking to enhance their expertise to take on more specialised roles. These areas include but are not limited to Energy Management Experts, Energy Management Advisor, Energy Manager, Energy Engineer and Energy Auditor.

Stakeholders from different associations and organisations operating within the energy advising and management environment participated in the development of the qualification.

Typical occupations related to this qualification include Energy Management Experts, Energy Management Advisor, Energy Manager, Energy Engineer, and Energy Auditor.

RPL for Access

Learners may use the RPL process to gain access to training opportunities for a qualification of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills qualification if they do not meet the formal, minimum entry requirements for admission. RPL assessment provides an alternative access route into a qualification of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills qualification.

Such an RPL assessment may be developed, moderated and conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider which offers that specific qualification/part qualification/skills qualification. Such an assessment must ensure that the learner is able to display the equivalent level of competencies required for access, based on the NQF level descriptors.

RPL for Exemption

For exemption from modules through RPL, learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a qualification of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills qualification through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded.

RPL for awarding credits

Learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a qualification of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills qualification through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded.

RPL for access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA)

A valid Statement of Results is required for admission to the EISA in which confirmation of achievement is provided that all internal assessment criteria for all modules in the related curriculum document have been achieved.

Upon successful completion of the EISA, RPL learners will be issued with the QCTO certificate for the qualification, part-qualification or skills qualification. Quality Partners are responsible for ensuring the RPL mechanism and process for qualifications and part-qualification is approved by the QCTO.

Entry Requirements

An NQF Level 7 qualification or equivalent in Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Environmental or any other related fields.

This qualification is made up of compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skill and Work Experience Modules

Knowledge Modules

• 214105-001-00-KM-01, International and Local Commitment to Climate Change Mitigation and Reduction of Greenhouse Gas (GhG) Emissions, NQF Level 7, 5 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-KM-02, Theory of Energy Assessments, NQF Level 7, 3 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-KM-03, Scientific Principles of Energy, NQF Level 7, 4 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-KM-04, Energy Management System (EnMS) Implementation, NQF Level 8, 8 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-KM-05, Scientific and Engineering Principles of Industrial Energy System Optimisation (ESO), NQF Level 8, 8 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-KM-06, Scientific and Engineering Principles of Renewable Energy Systems, NQF Level 8, 10 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-KM-07, Energy Performance Measurement Indicators, NQF Level 7, 4 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-KM-08, Management of energy performance improvements, NQF 7, 3 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-KM-09, Theory of Reducing Energy Use, Energy Cost and Improving Energy Performance, NQF Level 8, 4 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-KM-10, Theory of EnMS Performance Evaluation and Improvement, NQF Level 8, 4 Credits.

Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 53

Practical Skill Modules

• 214105-001-00-PM-01, Evaluate and Review the Aspects Of, And Estimate the Impact on The Current and Future Energy Environment, Including Energy Supply, NQF Level 8, 5 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-PM-02, Establish Leadership Commitment for Change and Develop an EnMS implementation strategy for planned strategic business intent, NQF Level 8, 10 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-PM-03, Prepare and Implement Energy Performance Measurement Processes and Indicators, NQF Level 7, 5 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-PM-04, Direct, Prepare and Present an EnMS Audit Process and Findings, NQF Level 8, 4 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-PM-05, Facilitate the Implementation of All Key EnMS Processes, NQF Level 7, 3 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-PM-06, Advise on Processes, Best Practices and Technological Requirements for Energy Management System (EnMS) Implementation, NQF Level 8, 14 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-PM-07, Develop Objectives, Targets and Action Plans for EnMS Performance, NQF Level 7, 5 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-PM-08, Assess and Track Performance of The Energy Management System, 7, 15 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-PM-09, Participate in Stakeholder Forums and Provide Information to Inform Stakeholders Regarding Energy System Implementation or Optimisation, NQF Level 8, 4 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-PM-10, Compile and Communicate Report Findings, NQF Level 8, 4 Credits.

Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 69

Work Experience Modules

• 214105-001-00-WM-01, Energy Management System (EnMS) Planning Processes, NQF Level 8, 12 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-WM-02, Energy Management System (EnMS) Implementation Processes, NQF Level 8, 12 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-WM-03, Energy Performance Monitoring and Reporting Processes, NQF Level 8, 12 Credits.
• 214105-001-00-WM-04, Processes and Procedures for Stakeholder Engagement, NQF Level, 8, 4 Credits.

Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 40

1. Assess and analyse an Energy Management System (EnMS) and make recommendations to optimise the EnMS and energy performance.
2. Appraise the implementation of the key Energy Management System (EnMS) processes and present findings to develop creative responses to problems and issues.
3. Appraise the Energy Management System (EnMS) performance improvement qualification to ensure operational efficiency and sustainability.
4. Synthesise data, EnMS trends, and information to obtain stakeholder commitment using appropriate tools and methodologies.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

ELO 1: Assess and analyse an Energy Management System (EnMS) and make recommendations to optimise the EnMS and energy performance.

• Evaluate and review the energy and regulatory environment to determine the effect and impact on the energy management system.
• Identify considerations to implement and sustain an EnMS strategy, to support strategic business intent, insulate business against rising business energy costs, and to remain competitive.
• Identify optimisation strategies and related standards, methods, techniques and tools to conduct an EnMS assessment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

ELO 2: Appraise the implementation of the key Energy Management System (EnMS) processes and present findings to develop creative responses to problems and issues.

• Assess EnMS performance improvement qualification against industry standards and best practices.
• Analyse EnMS audit that identifies areas for improvement according to ISO 50001.
• Evaluate EnMS audit, synthesise and present findings.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

ELO 3: Appraise the Energy Management System (EnMS) performance improvement qualification to ensure operational efficiency and sustainability.

• Assess EnMS performance improvement qualification against industry standards and best practices.
• Determine objectives, targets, and action plans to improve EnMS performance.
• Assess and track performance of the energy management system to enhance operational efficiency and sustainability.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

ELO 4: Synthesise data, EnMS trends, and information to obtain stakeholder commitment using appropriate tools and methodologies.

• Develop a sound business case in favour of an EnMS system implementation.
• Analyse and synthesise information on EnMS implementation for presentation to stakeholders.
• Record and communicate complex national and international energy efficient concepts and ideas.

Integrated Formative Assessments conducted internally

Formative assessments are conducted throughout the training of learners. A range of formal, non-formal, and informal ongoing assessment activities are used to focus on teaching and learning outcomes to improve learner attainment.

Formative assessments are conducted continuously by the facilitator to feed into further learning, to identify strengths and weakness, and to ensure the learner's ability to apply knowledge, skills and workplace experience gained.

Formative Assessments are conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider (SDP), and a variety of ongoing assessment methods may be used, for example, quizzes, assignments, tests, scenarios, role play, interviews. Continuous feedback must be provided.

Integrated Summative Assessments conducted Internally

Integrated Assessment involves all the different types of assessment tasks required for a particular qualification, part-qualification or occupational skills qualification, such as written assessment of theory and practical demonstration of competence. To achieve this, the Internal Assessment Criteria (IAC) for all modules as found in the QCTO curriculum document must be followed.

An accredited SDP should implement a well-designed, formal, relevant, final internal Summative Assessment strategy for all modules to prepare learners for the EISA. These assessments evaluate learning achievements relating to the achievement of each module of the relevant components of the qualification, part-qualification or skills qualification.

Internal Summative Assessments are developed, moderated and conducted by the SDP at the end of each module or after integration of relevant modules, e.g. applied knowledge tests, workplace tasks, practical demonstrations, simulated tasks/demonstrations, projects, case studies, etc.

The results of these final formal summative assessments must be recorded. These results, which include the Statement of Work Experience results, where applicable, contribute to the Statement of Results (SoR) that is a requirement for admission to the EISA. An SoR, using the template provided by the Quality Partner, is issued by the accredited SDP for qualifications and part-qualifications. The SDP must produce a valid Statement of Results for each learner, indicating the final result and the date on which the competence in each module, of each component, was achieved. Learners are required to produce this SoR, together with their ID document or alternative ID document, at the point of the EISA.

External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA) - a national assessment

The Quality Partner is responsible for the management, conduct and implementation of the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA), in accordance with QCTO set standards. Competence in the EISA is a requirement for certificating a learner.

For entrance into the EISA, the learner requires a valid Statement of Results issued by the accredited institution indicating:

The attainment of all modules for the Knowledge, Practical and Work Experience modules.