Now available from the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) is a new e-Training core course: Distributed-Scale Renewable Energy Projects: From Planning to Project Closeout.

The course focuses on the planning and implementation of distributed-scale renewable energy projects, which are smaller than 10 megawatts. It outlines a detailed 10-step process from technology screening to project closeout.

By completing this course participants will be able to:

• Plan facility renewable energy projects using available screening tools for renewable energy resources, savings to investment ratio analysis, and feasibility studies

• Demonstrate the ability to determine renewable energy funding thresholds to define project requirements, propose a project site, and estimate project costs

• Assemble and work in integrated project teams

• Apply knowledge of renewable energy project development, including technology and resource specifics, for solar (thermal and photovoltaic), wind, and biomass projects

• Develop required contracting documents, such as RFPs, taking advantage of performance based contracting and design-build approaches to achieve optimal results.

The course instructor is Andy Walker, PhD, principal engineer at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Dr. Walker is an author, teacher, and expert in engineering and economic analysis of renewable energy projects of all types and sizes.

After completing a course evaluation and multiple-choice assessment, participants will receive a certificate of completion and be eligible for continuing education units.

FEMP core courses are designed for Federal energy and facility managers, but are open to all individuals through the FEMP Training site. Hosted in partnership with the National Institute of Building Sciences Whole Building Design Guide.

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