Description
Delivery details
Mode: Hybrid with self-directed online modules and live tutorials
Self directed modules available from: 1 May 2026
Programme duration: Approx. 9 weeks
CPD: 11 points (CEP Framework)
Trainer: Rob Bishop (Energy Solutions Ltd)
Course structure
The course is delivered through 12 self-directed online lessons, in four blocks with connecting exercises, short quizzes and live tutorials.
You can preview the first three videos free, to get a sense of the course content before registering for the full programme.
View Block 1 Videos (for free)
- Block 1: Lessons 1–3
Live tutorial: approx. 1 hour – TBC June 2026
- Block 2: Lessons 4–6
Live tutorial: approx. 1 hour – TBC June 2026
- Block 3: Lessons 7–9
Live tutorial: approx. 1 hour – TBC July 2026
- Block 4: Lessons 10–12
Live tutorial: approx. 1 hour – TBC July 2026
When should you start the self-directed learning?
To get the best value from this hybrid training programme, we recommend completing the self-directed lessons and exercises before each live tutorial. This approach will help you consolidate your understanding, identify areas you’d like to explore further and prepare any questions for discussion with the trainer during the live sessions.
Note: Videos will remain available for enrolled students for 12 months after the final tutorial.
Course overview
An efficient HVAC system is essential for achieving a net-zero-energy commercial building. Net-zero design delivers the lowest life-cycle cost and should be the goal of all new commercial buildings. The key is configuring and operating HVAC systems for lower capital cost while consuming only a fraction of the energy of conventional systems.
Achieving this requires integrated design and a series of well-informed decisions throughout design, installation, operation and optimisation. HVAC is the most complex system, and the one most likely to lock in inefficiencies, it is also where the biggest gains can be made.
This course provides a process for delivering an optimally energy-efficient HVAC system, covering sizing, design and operation. It demonstrates how to cost-effectively achieve excellent indoor air/environmental quality (IAQ/IEQ), comfort, health and productivity, while minimising HVAC energy use and costs.
Course lesson topics
This hybrid course will cover the following topics:
- Overview of Energy Efficient HVAC Systems
- HVAC Systems Design
- Cooling Plant Systems
- Cooling Operations
- Efficient Boiler Plant and Operations
- Mechanical Systems Design
- Indoor Air Quality
- Data Centres and Server Rooms
- Motors and Drive Efficiency for HVAC Systems
- HVAC System Commissioning for Energy Efficiency
- Control Fundamentals
- Control Diagnostics
Recommended prior learning or experience
Participants should be familiar with the principles of basic HVAC design and operation. The course focuses specifically on energy efficiency rather than covering every sub-discipline in detail.
When should you register?
You can register at anytime. Once you have paid, the online self-directed lessons will be available to you as indicated in the delivery details above.
Qualification pathway
This course prepares participants wishing to apply to become a Certified Commercial Buildings Energy Specialist in HVAC and Controls.
To gain certification, applicants must pass on online exam (75% passmark), submit a report on a project relating to this course – preferably based on actual working experience and attend an interview with an assessor (30-60 minutes). These are assessed according to a documented process, administered by CEP.
NB: Separate fees apply for certification applications.
If you require a letter of support to assist with funding approval, please contact the CEP Office.
Please read the Refund Policy before confirming your registration.
