IREC Clean Energy Certificate Standard Approved by ANSI as an American National Standard
A new national standard for the accreditation of clean energy education/training certificate programs, developed by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC), has received final approval from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) as an American National Standard. IREC was accredited by ANSI in 2013 as a standards developing organization, leading the nation in clean energy education/training credentials and standards.
“We’re very proud to receive this recognition from ANSI,” said IREC President/CEO Jane Weissman. “It demonstrates that IREC has exemplified best practices, and truly listened to all sectors of industry in developing these requirements. A program accredited to this national, consensus-based standard distinguishes itself as meeting high-quality education and training requirements that were developed with significant industry input – so the skills of graduates match the needs of clean energy jobs.”
ANSI/IREC Standard 14732-2014 was developed by an independent, subject matter expert working group of the IREC Standards Committee, working closely with industry leaders so that the standard is aligned with specific job task analysis, and linked to real-world skills needed by individuals entering the clean energy workforce. Certificate programs that apply for accreditation under the standard may be hosted by a variety of institutions, including colleges, industry training groups, for-profit organizations, or unions.
“Workforce education is so crucial to the development of our industry, and we saw that folks were confused by the proliferation of ‘green’certificates,” said Laure-Jeanne Davignon, director of the IREC Credentialing Program. “IREC wanted a means for prospective students, employers and ultimately consumers to identify high quality clean energy certificate programs that prepare graduates with market-valued skills needed by industry.”
The IREC Standards Committee and the working groups who develop and revise IREC’s standards help to ensure industry validation and acceptance.
“With IREC, the Standards Committee would like to thank all of the stakeholders who participated in the vital process of developing a consensus-based standard,” said Standards Committee chair Sydney Roberts, Southface Energy Institute. “With this ANSI/IREC Standard, IREC continues to show leadership in building the workforce of renewable energy and energy efficiency professionals.”
Questions about IREC’s standards development activities can be directed to: [email protected] or call (518) 621-7379.
