​​​​​​Sponsored by Basin Electric Power Cooperative, East River Electric Power Cooperative and Sioux Valley Energy

Course Description
Join trainers Eddie Plowden, CEM (Berkeley Electric Cooperative) and Josh Schaffner (Capital Electric Cooperative) for an in-depth, hands-on course focused on residential and small commercial energy auditing.

Participants will learn the fundamentals of residential energy assessments, advanced auditing techniques using hourly energy data and weather analysis, and the basics of small commercial energy audits. The course also includes a hands-on energy assessment conducted in a member's home and/or business, providing practical field experience.

A variety of energy auditing tools will be available throughout the training, giving attendees the opportunity to become familiar with the equipment, techniques, and best practices used to conduct effective energy assessments.

This course is designed to strengthen the skills of Member Services and Key Accounts professionals, whether they are experienced energy auditors, new to energy assessments, or simply looking to expand their knowledge and better assist members with energy-use concerns.

 

Topics Covered
Participants will gain knowledge and hands-on experience in:

• Fundamentals of residential energy assessments
• Advanced residential energy auditing using hourly energy-use data and weather analysis
• Fundamentals of small commercial energy audits
• Conducting hands-on residential energy assessments in a member's home
• Using common energy auditing tools and equipment
• Identifying energy-saving opportunities and educating members on energy efficiency

 

Who Should Attend?
This course is designed for employees who frequently discuss billing and energy use with members. Participants will learn how to:

• Use hourly energy usage data and weather information to conduct basic energy audits.
• Educate members about demand and its impact on electric bills.
• Apply simple formulas to compare energy costs and answer member questions.
• Evaluate and discuss heating and cooling equipment upgrades.
• Compare fuel costs, including discussions on electric heat pumps and dual-fuel heat pump systems.

To support member education, South Carolina's electric cooperatives have developed a series of energy management videos. Participants are encouraged to view Berkeley Electric's "Eddie's Energy Tips", which offer practical energy-saving advice tailored to South Carolina's climate.

Date: September 29-30, 2026

Location: Sioux Valley Energy’s Brandon Service Center (near Sioux Falls, SD)

Cost: $165 (Basin Electric sponsors the remainder, assisted by East River Electric Power Cooperative and Sioux Valley Energy)

Schedule: 

• Day 1 – Tuesday, September 29:

  • AM - Residential energy basics

  • PM - Site visit for residential energy auditing

  • Evening – Dinner/activity hosted by Basin Electric Power Cooperative

• Day 2 – Wednesday, September 30:

  • AM – Residential energy auditing (continued)

  • AM – Commercial energy auditing

  • PM - Commercial energy auditing (continued)

A room block has been reserved at the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson with a rate of $119 + fees. For the discounted room block rate call 605-607-4076 and mention "Sioux Valley Energy." The room block release date is August 29. 

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson
200 E 8th Street
Sioux Falls, SD 57104
605-607-4076

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