Energy Performance Contract Essentials

Unlock the skills to lead successful Energy Performance Contract projects. Learn how to cut energy costs, boost sustainability, and drive results confidently

Introduction

Energy Performance Contracts (EPCs) are one of the most effective mechanisms for funding large-scale retrofits and energy-efficiency improvements—yet many consultants struggle to navigate their complexity. If you’ve ever found yourself unsure how to scope an EPC, explain it to stakeholders, or structure a deal that actually delivers verified savings, you’re not alone.

Energy Performance Contract Essentials is a concise, self-paced course designed to bridge that gap. It provides energy-efficiency advisors and consultants with the practical skills, language, and tools needed to confidently guide clients through the EPC process—from opportunity to execution.

Course Description

Energy Performance Contracts (EPCs) unlock large-scale efficiency upgrades by paying for projects from future energy savings—yet many advisors still find the model complex. Energy Performance Contract Essentials distils the fundamentals into a short, practical curriculum so you can:

  • Spot EPC opportunities in client portfolios and overcome capital-budget barriers.
  • Explain contractual structures—Guaranteed vs Shared Savings—and advise on fair risk allocation.
  • Guide baseline and M&V decisions using IPMVP principles that stand up in audits.
  • Navigate global market nuances and policy drivers affecting your projects.
  • Use a step-by-step field guide and ready-to-adapt tools to keep projects on track.

All grounded in the real-world cases, templates and checklists referenced throughout the course script—nothing more, nothing less.

What you’ll learn

  • Understand how Energy Performance Contracts (EPCs) enable energy upgrades without upfront capital.

  • Distinguish between Guaranteed Savings and Shared Savings contract models.

  • Advise on risk allocation between clients and ESCOs for performance, usage, and energy price.

  • Apply the IPMVP framework (Options A–D) to measure and verify savings credibly.

  • Recognize how EPCs are used in different regions and adapt to local policy and market conditions.

  • Debunk common EPC myths and identify critical success factors like accurate baselines and engaged stakeholders.

  • Follow a step-by-step guide through the full EPC lifecycle—from opportunity to close-out.

  • Use practical tools like checklists, templates, and model contracts to manage real projects.

  • Explore training options and professional certifications to deepen your EPC expertise.

  • Understand emerging trends in performance contracting, such as M&V 2.0 and innovative financing models

Bonus Resources: Adaptable Model Contracts

To help you hit the ground running, this course includes three ready-to-adapt model documents: a feasibility study agreement, a standard EPC contract, and a memorandum of understanding tailored for energy performance projects. These templates provide a practical starting point for structuring your own contracts—saving you time, reducing legal guesswork, and boosting your credibility with clients.

Who is this course for

This Course Is For You If:

  • You advise clients on audits, retrofits or financing and want to add EPC expertise quickly.
  • You need to translate EPC concepts for facility owners and boards.
  • You prefer learning by example and practical templates over theory-heavy textbooks.

This Course Might Not Be For You If:

  • You already manage multi-million-dollar EPC portfolios and need advanced financial modelling.
  • You’re looking for a deep-dive certification like PMVA or a multi-day finance boot-camp
  • You expect legal advice specific to your jurisdiction—this course provides generic templates only.

Certification

Upon successful completion of this course, you’ll receive a Certificate of Completion to showcase your commitment to professional development. This certificate can be added to your resume or LinkedIn profile to highlight your dedication to thriving in the sustainability field.

Read more about the Sustainability Education Academy Certification here

Course Content

What is an EPC and Why Should You Care? 1 Quiz
Contractual Structures and Risk Allocation 1 Quiz
Measurement and Verification (M&V) – Proving the Savings 1 Quiz
Global Regulatory Landscape and Market Trends 1 Quiz
Common Misconceptions and Key Success Drivers 1 Quiz
Training and Resources for EPC Professionals 1 Quiz
Future Directions and Research Questions

Ratings and Reviews

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58442837 10213531934706182 7282271488802029568 n 1 Mary Grace Galan
Posted 1 year ago
very informative

this is a great course

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