Energy Advisor (Steam System Optimisation)

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to function as an Energy Advisor (Steam System Optimisation Specialist). A learner would acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to develop, manage and advise on enhancing the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of steam generation, distribution, end-use and condensate recovery within industrial facilities to improve steam system performance. A qualified learner will be able to: • Conduct assessment and analyse the performance of steam generation, distribution, end-use and condensate recovery. • Advise on and manage system optimisation and efficiency enhancement of steam system performance, processes, and practices. • Manage energy performance qualification, monitoring, and reporting. • Capacitate and maintain productive stakeholder relationships and negotiate commitment for steam system optimisation. Qualifying learner attributes are: > Strategical, • Problem solving, • Creativity, • Technicality, • Analytical and procedural.

The need for this qualification is because South African energy sector faces unique challenges that necessitate specialised skills in steam system optimisation. These challenges include inefficient energy use, high energy costs, and a heavy reliance on fossil fuels, which contribute to environmental degradation and economic inefficiency. The Energy Advisor (Steam System Optimisation Specialist) qualification addresses these issues by equipping professionals with the skills needed to enhance the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of steam systems, which are integral to various industrial processes. This qualification is critical for supporting South Africa's transition towards more sustainable energy practices. Given the country's industrial landscape, where steam systems play a pivotal role in sectors such as manufacturing, power generation, and mining, optimising these systems can lead to significant energy savings, reduced carbon emissions, and improved operational efficiency. Specialists in steam system optimisation will be at the forefront of implementing technologies and practices that reduce energy consumption and costs, contributing to the environmental and economic goals of the nation. Moreover, this qualification supports South Africa's commitments under international agreements on climate change by promoting the adoption of cleaner, more efficient energy technologies. It aligns with global and national strategies aimed at enhancing industrial energy efficiency, thereby supporting sustainable development and green job creation in the energy sector. Currently there are no other similar occupational qualifications for this specific specialisation area registered on the NQF. There are a number of energy related qualifications on the NQF, but they are in the HEQSF at either a lower or higher NQF Level and they are provider specific qualifications such as: 73761 Bachelor of Commerce Honours: Energy Studies, NQF Level 08, University of Johannesburg. This qualification is more general in energy studies and not in energy advising with specific focus on steam systems. The current higher education qualification is also specifically focussed on sharing of principles and theory. The Occupational Qualification is more focussed on actual practice, how it should be done in an energy efficient manner. This qualification benefits the industry by providing a pool of specialists skilled in optimising steam systems, leading to more efficient use of energy, reduced operational costs, and enhanced competitiveness of South African industries. By improving the efficiency of steam systems, this qualification contributes to environmental sustainability by significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and minimising the environmental impact of industrial activities. It also promotes energy conservation awareness among industries and society. Optimising steam systems can lead to substantial energy cost savings for industries, which, in turn, can lower product costs and stimulate economic growth. This qualification fosters innovation in steam system optimisation, driving technological advancements and creating new opportunities in the green economy. The typical learners for this qualification are professionals and practitioners with a background in engineering, environmental sciences, or related fields, seeking to specialise in energy management. They are likely to have experience in the energy sector and are seeking to enhance their expertise to take on more specialised roles. These areas include but are not limited to Energy Management Experts, Energy Engineer and Energy Auditor. Stakeholders from different associations and organisations operating within the energy advising and management environment participated in the development of the qualification. Typical occupations related to this qualification include: Steam System Optimisation Expert, Steam System Advisor, Steam Manager, Steam Engineer, Steam System Auditor Energy Management Experts, and Energy Auditor.

RPL for Access: Learners may use the RPL process to gain access to training opportunities for a qualification of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills qualification if they do not meet the formal, minimum entry requirements for admission. RPL assessment provides an alternative access route into a qualification. Such an RPL assessment may be developed, moderated and conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider which offers that specific qualification. Such an assessment must ensure that the learner is able to display the equivalent level of competencies required for access, based on the NQF level descriptors. RPL for Exemption: For exemption from modules through RPL, learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of qualification through any means of formal, informal or nonformal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded. RPL for awarding credits: Learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a qualification, part qualification through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded. RPL for access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment A valid Statement of Results is required for admission to the EISA in which confirmation of achievement is provided that all internal assessment criteria for all modules in the related curriculum document have been achieved. Upon successful completion of the EISA, RPL learners will be issued with the QCTO certificate for the qualification. Quality Partners are responsible for ensuring the RPL mechanism and process for qualifications is approved by the QCTO. Entry Requirements: An NQF Level 7 qualification or equivalent in Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Environmental or any other related fields.

• Apply appropriate tools and knowledge of system performance to analyse the performance of the steam system, including steam generation, distribution, and end-use and condensate recovery.
• Apply knowledge of energy system to analyse steam system performance, optimisation measures, and efficiency enhancement processes, and practices.
• Analyse energy performance qualification, monitoring, and reporting by applying knowledge and skills of management processes and principles.
• Demonstrate the ability to use relevant tools and methodologies to prepare and present information on steam system performance to maintain stakeholder commitment.