Zero Net Energy

The Zero Net Energy (ZNE) Certificate is designed to offer the students a broad overview into the energy conservation industry and includes cross-disciplinary courses in Energy Systems, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning, Architecture, Computer Information Systems, and Building Inspection Technology. Completion of the ZNE Certificate is especially beneficial for support staff currently working in the energy sector, such as an Energy Auditor, Energy Consultant, ZNE Technician, Green HVAC Technician, Facility Management, Construction Management and Solar Residential Technician.

Program Goals:

1.      Fulfill the requirements for anentry-level position in their field

2.      Apply critical thinking skills toexecute daily duties in their area of employment

3.      Display the skills and aptitudenecessary to pass (Industry Recognized Credentials) certification exams intheir field

4.      Exhibit effective written, oralcommunication and interpersonal skills

Objectives:

1.       Describe theenvironmental impacts of producing and distributing electricity.

2.       Explain theimportance of site design, building orientation, and climate regions.

3.       Identify a varietyof basic materials and components used in the construction, electrical and HVACindustries and their blueprints drawing equivalents.

4.       Interpret andexplain drawings and Blueprints from the construction, electrical, and HVACindustries as well as new Title 24 energy efficiency requirements.

5.       Solve commonbusiness problems using appropriate Information Technology applications andsystems.

6.       Understand thespecific residential mandatory measures of the CA Green Building Standards Codeand energy efficiency including the compliance with title 24.

7.       Analyze, interpret,and solve applied problems from different technical characteristics

8.       Demonstrateproficiency in practices and/or procedures newly learned in the workplace.

The goal of the Zero Net EnergyCertificate is to provide students a foundational understanding of energyefficiency as it relates to building energy systems and energy efficiency.  With this certificate, students can enter thebuilding, construction, and utilities industries with the most up to dateknowledge of recent codes and regulations, as well as specific requirements forTitle 24 compliance. This certificate also represents a core requirement forthe Building and Energy Systems Professional (BESP), a broader regionalcollaboration with other programs to align energy related certificate programsto meet Title 24, Zero Net Energy, and industry standards under a single degreeprogram.  This certificate, as a common corerequirement, will provide a framework for the coordination of industrysupported work experience, internships, and apprenticeships with theconstruction, heating and Air conditioning, architecture, and buildinginspection industry.