How can FM professionals stay up-to-date with energy management trends?

1 Join professional associations

One of the best ways to keep up with energy management trends is to join professional associations that offer networking, education, and certification opportunities for FM professionals. For example, the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) has a dedicated Energy Management Community of Practice, where you can connect with peers, access webinars, podcasts, and articles, and participate in events and forums. Similarly, the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) provides training, certification, and publications on various aspects of energy management, such as energy auditing, performance contracting, and renewable energy.

2 Subscribe to industry publications

Another way to stay informed about energy management trends is to subscribe to industry publications that cover the latest news, developments, and insights on the topic. For example, you can read magazines such as Facility Executive, Buildings, and Energy Manager Today, which offer articles, case studies, and tips on energy management for FM professionals. You can also follow blogs, newsletters, and podcasts from reputable sources, such as the U.S. Department of Energy, the Energy Star program, and the Rocky Mountain Institute.

4 Enroll in online courses

A fourth way to stay up-to-date with energy management trends is to enroll in online courses that can help you learn new skills and concepts, or refresh your existing ones. For example, you can take courses from platforms such as Coursera, edX, or Udemy, which offer a variety of energy management courses for different levels and interests. You can also enroll in courses from specialized providers, such as the Energy University by Schneider Electric, the Energy Management Academy by Siemens, or the Energy Management Training by the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment.

5 Seek mentorship and feedback

A fifth way to stay up-to-date with energy management trends is to seek mentorship and feedback from other FM professionals who have more experience or expertise in energy management. For example, you can find a mentor through your professional association, your employer, or your network, who can offer you advice, guidance, and support on your energy management goals and challenges. You can also seek feedback from your colleagues, clients, or stakeholders, who can provide you with valuable insights and suggestions on how to improve your energy management performance and outcomes.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?