Specialised Occupational Diploma: Energy Advisor (Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System Optimisation)

Purpose

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Energy Advisor (Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System Optimisation).

A qualified learner will be able to

• Conduct assessment and analyse the performance of the HVAC system, energy conversion, distribution, and end use applications.
• Advise on and manage HVAC system optimisation and enhancement of the performance, processes, and practices.
• Manage energy performance programme, monitoring, and reporting.
• Capacitate and maintain productive relationships and negotiate commitment for HVAC system optimisation.

Qualifying learners would acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to develop, manage and advise on enhancing the performance, energy efficiency, and sustainability of HVAC systems used in industrial and commercial applications for optimising the systems to improve energy performance, life cycle costs, and environmental impact.

A qualified learner will demonstrate the following key attributes: Strategical, problem solving, creativity, methodical, technicality, analytical and procedural.

Rationale

The South African energy landscape is characterised by unique challenges that demand specialised skills as an Energy Advisor (Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems) to ensure energy efficiency and sustainability. With a growing emphasis on reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions, there is a critical need for professionals trained in HVAC systems. These systems are pivotal in commercial, industrial, and residential settings, where they represent a significant portion of energy use.

This qualification is designed to address these needs by equipping professionals with the expertise to conduct assessments, advise and manage performance of energy-efficient HVAC systems. This qualification is particularly relevant as South Africa faces frequent energy constraints and seeks to diversify its energy mix, including a greater reliance on renewable energy sources. Specialists in HVAC will be at the forefront of integrating these technologies into new and existing buildings, optimising energy use, and contributing to the overall energy efficiency of the nation.

Moreover, the qualification supports South Africa's commitment to international climate agreements by preparing a workforce capable of implementing cutting-edge, energy-efficient, and sustainable HVAC solutions. This will not only help reduce the country's greenhouse gas emissions but also improve energy security by lessening the dependence on imported energy sources.

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:

• SAQA ID: 101562 Advanced Diploma in Mechanical Engineering in Renewable Energy, NQF Level 07, Cape Peninsula University of Technology.
• SAQA ID: 73761 Bachelor of Commerce Honours: Energy Studies, NQF Level 08, University of Johannesburg.

These qualifications are more general in energy studies or renewable energy and not in energy advising with specific focus on HVAC. The occupational certificate is only at NQF Level 4 and deals with fitment of an HVAC system and not the assessment of its efficiency.

Sector Benefit: The introduction of this qualification will greatly benefit the HVAC sector by providing a pool of qualified individuals who can drive innovation and efficiency improvements. This is crucial for meeting both current and future energy challenges, ensuring that HVAC systems contribute positively to sustainability goals.

Societal Benefit: By promoting the adoption of more efficient HVAC systems, this qualification contributes to environmental protection and enhances public health through improved air quality. It also raises public awareness about the importance of energy efficiency and the role of HVAC systems in achieving it.

Economic Benefit: Training specialists in HVAC systems supports economic development by reducing energy costs, decreasing reliance on imported energy, and fostering local industries related to HVAC equipment and services. This, in turn, can lead to job creation and stimulate innovation in the sector.

The typical learners for this qualification are professionals with a background in engineering, environmental sciences, or related fields, seeking to specialise in energy system optimisation.

They are likely to have experience in the energy sector and are seeking to enhance their expertise to take on more specialised roles within occupations such as Energy Management Experts, HVAC systems Advisor, HVAC Manager, Energy Engineer, Energy Auditor and Building Services Engineer.

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

The typical occupations related to this qualification include

• Energy Management Experts.
• HVAC systems Advisor.
• HVAC Manager.
• Energy Engineer.
• Energy Auditor.
• Building Services Engineer.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

RPL for Access to Training/Exemption

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

Such an RPL assessment may be developed, moderated and conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider which offers that specific qualification/part qualification/skills programme. 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 from modules

For exemption from modules through RPL, learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills programme 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 credits

Learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills programme 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/FISA, RPL learners will be issued with the QCTO certificate for the qualification, part-qualification or skills programme. 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

• 214105-006-00-KM-01, International and Local Commitment to Climate Change Mitigation and Reduction of Greenhouse Gas (GhG) Emissions, NQF Level 7, 5 Credits.
• 214105-006-00-KM-02, Theory of HVAC Systems Auditing, NQF Level 7, 3 Credits.
• 214105-006-00-KM-03, Scientific Principles of Energy, NQF Level 7, 4 Credits.
• 214105-006-00-KM-04, HVAC System Optimisation, NQF Level 8, 8 Credits.
• 214105-006-00-KM-05, Scientific and Engineering Principles of Industrial Energy System Optimisation (ESO) NQF Level 8, 8 Credits.
• 214105-006-00-KM-06, Scientific and Engineering Principles of Renewable Energy Systems, NQF Level 8, 10 Credits.
• 214105-006-00-KM-07, Energy Performance Measurement Indicators, NQF Level 7, 4 Credits.
• 214105-006-00-KM-08, Management of Energy Performance Improvements, NQF Level 7, 3 Credits.
• 214105-006-00-KM-09, Implementation Programme Management, NQF Level 7, 10 Credits.

Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 55

Practical Skill Modules

• 214105-006-00-PM-01, Evaluate the Aspects and Estimate the Impact on the Current and Future Energy Environment, Including Energy, NQF Level 8, 5 Credits.
• 214105-006-00-PM-02, Develop HVAC System Optimisation Strategy and Plan, NQF Level 8, 15 Credits.
• 214105-006-00-PM-03, Prepare and Implement Energy Performance Measurement Processes and Indicators, NQF Level 7, 5 Credits.
• 214105-006-00-PM-04, Facilitate the Implementation of HVAC System Processes, NQF Level 8, 18 Credits.
• 214105-006-00-PM-05, Assess and Track Performance of the Energy Management Programme, NQF Level 7, 15 Credits.
• 214105-006-00-PM-06, Participate in Stakeholder Forums and Provide Information to Inform Stakeholders Regarding Energy System Implementation or Optimisation, NQF Level 8, 4 Credits.
• 214105-006-00-PM-07, Compile and Communicate Report Findings, NQF Level 8, 4 Credits.

Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 66

Work Experience Modules

• 214105-006-00-WM-01, HVAC System Assessment and Analysis Processes, NQF Level 8, 12 Credits.
• 214105-006-00-WM-02, HVAC System Performance Processes, NQF Level 8, 12 Credits.
• 214105-006-00-WM-03, Energy Performance Monitoring and Reporting Processes, NQF Level 8, 12 Credits.
• 214105-006-00-WM-04, Processes and Procedures for Stakeholder Engagement, NQF Level 8, 4 Credits.

Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 40

1. Apply appropriate processes or techniques in analysing the needs for the HVAC system, energy conversion, distribution, and end use applications performance assessment.
2. Demonstrate the ability to apply the knowledge of energy system and process to analyse HVAC system performance optimisation measures, and efficiency enhancement processes, and practices.
3. Analyse HVAC energy performance programme, monitoring, and reporting by applying knowledge and skills of management processes and principles.
4. Use relevant tools and methodologies to prepare and present information on HVAC system performance improvements to encourage stakeholder commitment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

ELO 1: Apply appropriate processes or techniques in analysing the needs for the HVAC system, energy conversion, distribution, and end use applications performance assessment.

• Develop a HVAC system plan and strategy to conduct a HVAC system assessment.
• Analyse data related to system, energy conversion, distribution, and end use applications to determine HVAC system efficiency
• Establish optimisation processes and indicators for the execution of the HVAC system assessment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

ELO 2: Demonstrate the ability to apply the knowledge of energy system and process to analyse HVAC system performance optimisation measures, and efficiency enhancement processes, and practices.

• Identify and analyse and quantify HVAC system energy saving opportunities in terms of energy savings.
• Prepare and present HVAC system energy performance is evaluated, and findings.
• Determine and quantify the financial impact of energy saving opportunities for the HVAC system.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

ELO 3: Analyse HVAC energy performance programme, monitoring, and reporting by applying knowledge and skills of management processes and principles.

• Plan and align the HVAC energy efficiency improvement programme to process requirements.
• Assess and track the energy performance of the HVAC system using performance indicators.
• Track post-retrofit energy performance of the HVAC system to determine effectiveness of the measures implemented.
• Determine and report on energy savings.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

ELO 4: Use relevant tools and methodologies to prepare and present information on HVAC system performance improvements to encourage stakeholder commitment.

• Evaluate and compare HVAC system performance optimisation methods.
• Develop a sound business case in favour of HVAC system optimisation implementation.
• Summarise findings on opportunities for HVAC system optimisation for presentation.

Integrated Assessment

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 programme, 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 programme.

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.