Becoming Energy manager

An Energy Manager is an expert in energy consumption. Their goal is to optimize the energy use of a company, organization, or building. Such optimization helps reduce costs and decrease environmental impact (carbon footprint, etc.). The Energy Manager therefore plays a crucial role in the energy transition. With certifications like CEM (Certified Energy Manager) and knowledge in energy management software, they are equipped to handle utility usage and compliance with energy policies.

One of the primary tasks of an Energy Manager is to precisely analyze energy consumption. They collect data to analyze and make forecasts using simulation models and energy management systems. The Energy Manager also performs an energy audit to identify losses and the processes that consume the most energy, thereby tracking energy usage and assessing real-time data.

The energy manager can work with other expert such as energy analyst, energy auditor and energy consultant.

Following the consumption analysis, this energy specialist must develop an effective action plan with well-defined objectives for improved energy efficiency. They prepare the budget for each action, define the timeline to achieve these objectives, and assign responsibilities to each person involved in the action plan. This often includes designing energy management programs and utilizing tools for energy savings and strategic energy management.

The Energy Manager ensures the success of energy transition projects by monitoring their progress and managing them. This is an important task to achieve an optimal return on investment. Key performance indicators (KPIs) such as greenhouse gas emissions are used to track project advancement. They also use digital energy managers and energy tracking solutions to monitor and manage operations efficiently.

Another crucial task for this energy specialist is to set up monitoring systems and analyze energy data that continuously track energy consumption. The Energy Manager can thus detect potential anomalies and improve energy efficiency, using energy management platforms and real-time data analytics.

Finally, writing reports on energy performance is a frequent task for the Energy Manager. These reports clearly communicate the results obtained to management, employees, and all stakeholders. They also justify the investments made to improve energy consumption, often including detailed descriptions of energy strategies and savings achieved.

To become an Energy Manager, one must have a solid understanding of energy efficiency and consumption management concepts, as well as energy auditing and energy balance. Mastery of these concepts helps reduce energy costs while minimizing environmental impact. Knowledge of energy management regulations and standards is crucial for compliance.

An energy management specialist must also know how to use specialized software to analyze energy data. They calculate key indicators, identify trends, and use statistical models to forecast energy systems. Familiarity with energy calculators, analyzers, and energy management software is essential.

Knowledge of standards and regulations is essential in this profession. The Energy Manager is responsible for ensuring that the actions implemented to improve energy performance comply with current legislation, including energy conservation policies and green building requirements.

Another key skill for the Energy Manager is the ability to lead energy transition projects from beginning to end. They must master every stage of these projects, from analysis to evaluation, including the development of the action plan and meeting specific energy management requirements.

The Energy Manager’s role is not limited to technical skills. They need excellent communication skills to coordinate teams and ensure that everything is completed on time and within budget. Their ability to manage projects effectively and lead energy initiatives is crucial.

The skills of an Energy Manager are sought after in various sectors. The building sector needs to design high-performance energy infrastructures, while industries aim to reduce their costs and improve their performance. Local authorities also have goals to achieve in terms of energy transition and management.

Becoming an Energy Manager offers great career prospects both in large companies and SMEs. All companies involved in energy transition need professionals capable of improving their energy consumption through strategic energy management and certified programs.

The field of energy management is a future-oriented profession. It opens doors to higher responsibility roles. Professionals can advance in the field of energy strategy, potentially becoming Energy Strategy Directors. They can also move into roles such as Energy Consultant, Energy Performance Manager, or Sustainability Director.

The salary of an Energy Manager depends on experience and sector, as well as company size, geographic location, and job responsibilities. At the beginning of their career, the gross annual salary can range between €30,000 and €50,000. After a few years of experience, it can reach €55,000 to €80,000.

Generally, an Energy Manager spends most of their time in an office. They also visit industrial sites or buildings to conduct energy audits, monitor project progress, and review energy performance. The working hours are full-time, but the job may require some flexibility if there are urgent issues to address.

Interested in becoming an Energy Manager? You can specialize in energy management by following an appropriate training program like the MSc in Management in Energy Transitions. The MSc in Management of Energy Transitions is a two-year program designed to train experts capable of leading local and international projects at the heart of the global energy transition. Faced with the challenges of decarbonisation, electrification and digitalisation, you will develop essential technical skills that deepen your understanding of energy systems, which is crucial for managing complex and sustainable projects. This immersive programme includes field trips, internships with industry leaders and courses at an international level.