Retrofitting for Energy Efficiency: The Role of a Retrofit Advisor

Today, energy efficiency is a focus for individuals, businesses, organizations, and communities across the globe. It reduces the demand for finite natural resources, curtails greenhouse gas emissions, and helps combat climate change. Additionally, it helps in lowering energy costs for consumers and promotes sustainable economic growth.

One of the most effective ways to achieve energy efficiency is through retrofitting. But what exactly is retrofitting, and why is it emerging as a crucial green job for the future? Let’s delve into this topic and explore the pivotal role of a retrofit advisor.

What Is Retrofitting?

Retrofitting refers to the process of making additions or modifications to existing buildings to enhance their energy efficiency. This involves encouraging improvements to energy efficiency within existing structures around the world and promoting the installation of sustainable technologies. The primary goal is to reduce energy consumption and, consequently, decrease greenhouse gas emissions. Given the vast number of older buildings that were not built with energy efficiency in mind, retrofitting offers a practical solution to a pressing global issue.

The Importance of Retrofitting as a Green Job

Working in retrofit means becoming a sustainability guru. Professionals in this field deliver consultations, providing customer support and advice to individuals and organizations considering making their buildings more eco-friendly. Retrofit advisors play a crucial role in managing sustainability projects, which includes tasks like booking installers, processing grant applications, reviewing surveys, and conducting online property assessments.

The demand for sustainability professionals, especially in retrofitting, is on the rise across energy companies, specialist installers, housing associations, and local councils. In the UK, for example, it’s estimated that by 2025, there will be a need for 10,000 skilled retrofit professionals. This surge in demand underscores the importance and potential of retrofitting as a green job for the future.

The Role of a Retrofit Advisor

A retrofit advisor’s role is at the heart of the retrofitting process. Their responsibilities include:

Delivering consultations over phone and email
Providing advice to people and organizations about making their buildings more eco-friendly
Managing sustainability projects
Conducting initial online property assessments

A retrofit advisor has a technical and consultative role, connecting property owners to the solutions that can make their buildings more energy-efficient.

Getting Started as a Retrofit Advisor

If you’re considering a career as a retrofit advisor, here are some tips to help you get started.

Educate yourself: Understand the basics of retrofitting, energy efficiency, and sustainable technologies. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and advancements in the field.
Get hands-on experience: Before diving into a full-time role, consider internships or volunteering opportunities in retrofitting projects to gain practical experience.
Undergo training: Consider enrolling in specialized training programs, like the one offered by Generation, which provides comprehensive training for those looking to become qualified retrofit advisors. Here at Generation, we offer free employment programs in various fields in 17 countries around the world. Our courses provide you with the knowledge, training, and skills you need to succeed in retrofitting and beyond. We even help you gain employment after graduating the course! Learn more about our employment programs near you.
Do some networking: Connect with professionals in the retrofitting and sustainability sectors. Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences to meet industry experts and gain insights.
Stay updated: The field of energy efficiency is ever-evolving. Regularly read industry publications, blogs, and research papers to stay updated with the latest techniques and technologies.
Develop and improve behavioral skills and mindsets: As a retrofit advisor, you’ll often be communicating with property owners, contractors, and other stakeholders. Develop your communication, problem-solving, and customer service skills.
Stay passionate: Remember the bigger picture — retrofitting plays a crucial role in tackling the climate crisis. Stay passionate and motivated about making a positive impact on the environment.

Starting a career as a retrofit advisor can be both rewarding and impactful. With the right training, network, and passion, you can play a significant role in promoting energy efficiency and sustainability.

For those interested in pursuing a career as a retrofit advisor, we at Generation offer a comprehensive program designed for learners without an advanced university degree background. This includes all of the necessary training to launch your career in the green sector.

At the end of the program, we connect learners with employers hiring for retrofit advisor roles. We support you throughout the application process and are here to help your transition into the working world. Learn more about our retrofit advisor program here!

At Generation, our mission is to train, support, and place people into otherwise inaccessible career opportunities that can change their lives. Explore our employment programs to see how we can help you, or donate today to help us create career opportunities for our learners!