|
|
All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source. |
| SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY |
| REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: |
| Specialised Occupational Diploma: Energy Advisor (Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System Optimisation) |
| SAQA QUAL ID | QUALIFICATION TITLE | |||
| 124345 | Specialised Occupational Diploma: Energy Advisor (Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System Optimisation) | |||
| ORIGINATOR | ||||
| Development Quality Partner - EWSETA -Engineering | ||||
| PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY | NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK | |||
| QCTO - Quality Council for Trades and Occupations | OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework | |||
| QUALIFICATION TYPE | FIELD | SUBFIELD | ||
| Specialised Occupational Dip | Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology | Engineering and Related Design | ||
| ABET BAND | MINIMUM CREDITS | PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL | NQF LEVEL | QUAL CLASS |
| Undefined | 161 | Not Applicable | NQF Level 08 | Regular-ELOAC |
| REGISTRATION STATUS | SAQA DECISION NUMBER | REGISTRATION START DATE | REGISTRATION END DATE | |
| Registered | EXCO 0632/25 | 2025-06-03 | 2030-06-03 | |
| LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT | LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT | |||
| 2031-06-03 | 2034-06-03 | |||
| In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise. |
This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. |
| PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION |
| Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Energy Advisor (Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System Optimisation). A qualified learner will be able to: Qualifying learners would acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to develop, manage and advise on enhancing the performance, energy efficiency, and sustainability of HVAC systems used in industrial and commercial applications for optimising the systems to improve energy performance, life cycle costs, and environmental impact. A qualified learner will demonstrate the following key attributes: Strategical, problem solving, creativity, methodical, technicality, analytical and procedural. Rationale: The South African energy landscape is characterised by unique challenges that demand specialised skills as an Energy Advisor (Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems) to ensure energy efficiency and sustainability. With a growing emphasis on reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions, there is a critical need for professionals trained in HVAC systems. These systems are pivotal in commercial, industrial, and residential settings, where they represent a significant portion of energy use. This qualification is designed to address these needs by equipping professionals with the expertise to conduct assessments, advise and manage performance of energy-efficient HVAC systems. This qualification is particularly relevant as South Africa faces frequent energy constraints and seeks to diversify its energy mix, including a greater reliance on renewable energy sources. Specialists in HVAC will be at the forefront of integrating these technologies into new and existing buildings, optimising energy use, and contributing to the overall energy efficiency of the nation. Moreover, the qualification supports South Africa's commitment to international climate agreements by preparing a workforce capable of implementing cutting-edge, energy-efficient, and sustainable HVAC solutions. This will not only help reduce the country's greenhouse gas emissions but also improve energy security by lessening the dependence on imported energy sources. Currently there are no other similar occupational qualifications for this specific specialisation area registered on the NQF. There are several 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: These qualifications are more general in energy studies or renewable energy and not in energy advising with specific focus on HVAC. The occupational certificate is only at NQF Level 4 and deals with fitment of an HVAC system and not the assessment of its efficiency. Sector Benefit: The introduction of this qualification will greatly benefit the HVAC sector by providing a pool of qualified individuals who can drive innovation and efficiency improvements. This is crucial for meeting both current and future energy challenges, ensuring that HVAC systems contribute positively to sustainability goals. Societal Benefit: By promoting the adoption of more efficient HVAC systems, this qualification contributes to environmental protection and enhances public health through improved air quality. It also raises public awareness about the importance of energy efficiency and the role of HVAC systems in achieving it. Economic Benefit: Training specialists in HVAC systems supports economic development by reducing energy costs, decreasing reliance on imported energy, and fostering local industries related to HVAC equipment and services. This, in turn, can lead to job creation and stimulate innovation in the sector. The typical learners for this qualification are professionals with a background in engineering, environmental sciences, or related fields, seeking to specialise in energy system optimisation. They are likely to have experience in the energy sector and are seeking to enhance their expertise to take on more specialised roles within occupations such as Energy Management Experts, HVAC systems Advisor, HVAC Manager, Energy Engineer, Energy Auditor and Building Services Engineer. Stakeholders from different associations and organisations operating within the energy advising and management environment participated in the development of the qualification. The typical occupations related to this qualification include: |
| LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING |
| Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
RPL for Access to Training/Exemption: Learners may use the RPL process to gain access to training opportunities for a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills programme if they do not meet the formal, minimum entry requirements for admission. RPL assessment provides an alternative access route into a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme. Such an RPL assessment may be developed, moderated and conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider which offers that specific qualification/part qualification/skills programme. 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 from modules: For exemption from modules through RPL, learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills programme 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 credits: Learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills programme 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 (EISA): 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/FISA, RPL learners will be issued with the QCTO certificate for the qualification, part-qualification or skills programme. Quality Partners are responsible for ensuring the RPL mechanism and process for qualifications and part-qualification is approved by the QCTO. Entry Requirements |
| RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? |
| Y |
| QUALIFICATION RULES |
| This qualification is made up of compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skill and Work Experience Modules:
Knowledge Modules: Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 55 Practical Skill Modules: Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 66 Work Experience Modules: Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 40 |
| EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES |
| 1. Apply appropriate processes or techniques in analysing the needs for the HVAC system, energy conversion, distribution, and end use applications performance assessment.
2. Demonstrate the ability to apply the knowledge of energy system and process to analyse HVAC system performance optimisation measures, and efficiency enhancement processes, and practices. 3. Analyse HVAC energy performance programme, monitoring, and reporting by applying knowledge and skills of management processes and principles. 4. Use relevant tools and methodologies to prepare and present information on HVAC system performance improvements to encourage stakeholder commitment. |
| ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA |
| Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
ELO 1: Apply appropriate processes or techniques in analysing the needs for the HVAC system, energy conversion, distribution, and end use applications performance assessment. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2: ELO 2: Demonstrate the ability to apply the knowledge of energy system and process to analyse HVAC system performance optimisation measures, and efficiency enhancement processes, and practices. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3: ELO 3: Analyse HVAC energy performance programme, monitoring, and reporting by applying knowledge and skills of management processes and principles. Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4: ELO 4: Use relevant tools and methodologies to prepare and present information on HVAC system performance improvements to encourage stakeholder commitment. Integrated Assessment: Formative Assessments conducted internally Formative assessments are conducted throughout the training of learners. A range of formal, non-formal, and informal ongoing assessment activities are used to focus on teaching and learning outcomes to improve learner attainment. Formative assessments are conducted continuously by the facilitator to feed into further learning, to identify strengths and weakness, and to ensure the learner's ability to apply knowledge, skills and workplace experience gained. Formative Assessments are conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider (SDP), and a variety of ongoing assessment methods may be used, for example, quizzes, assignments, tests, scenarios, role play, interviews. Continuous feedback must be provided. Integrated Summative Assessments conducted Internally Integrated Assessment involves all the different types of assessment tasks required for a particular qualification, part-qualification or occupational skills programme, such as written assessment of theory and practical demonstration of competence. To achieve this, the Internal Assessment Criteria (IAC) for all modules as found in the QCTO curriculum document must be followed. An accredited SDP should implement a well-designed, formal, relevant, final internal Summative Assessment strategy for all modules to prepare learners for the EISA. These assessments evaluate learning achievements relating to the achievement of each module of the relevant components of the qualification, part-qualification or skills programme. Internal Summative Assessments are developed, moderated and conducted by the SDP at the end of each module or after integration of relevant modules, e.g. applied knowledge tests, workplace tasks, practical demonstrations, simulated tasks/demonstrations, projects, case studies, etc. The results of these final formal summative assessments must be recorded. These results, which include the Statement of Work Experience results, where applicable, contribute to the Statement of Results (SoR) that is a requirement for admission to the EISA. An SoR, using the template provided by the Quality Partner, is issued by the accredited SDP for qualifications and part-qualifications. The SDP must produce a valid Statement of Results for each learner, indicating the final result and the date on which the competence in each module, of each component, was achieved. Learners are required to produce this SoR, together with their ID document or alternative ID document, at the point of the EISA. External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA) - a national assessment The Quality Partner is responsible for the management, conduct and implementation of the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA), in accordance with QCTO set standards. Competence in the EISA is a requirement for certificating a learner. For entrance into the EISA, the learner requires a valid Statement of Results issued by the accredited institution indicating the attainment of all modules for the Knowledge, Practical and Work Experience modules. |
| INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY |
| The South African Specialised Occupational Diploma: HVAC System Specialist, NQF Level 8, has been compared with qualifications from the following two countries:
1. United States of America: Master of Engineering in HVAC Systems Design (Offered by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology). 2. Canada: Advanced Diploma in HVAC Engineering Technology (Offered by the British Columbia Institute of Technology). This comparison aims to provide insights into how the South African qualification aligns with international standards in the field of HVAC systems. It also seeks to understand the global relevance and applicability of the South African programme, especially in fostering expertise in energy-efficient and sustainable HVAC systems and practices. United States of America (USA): The Master of Engineering in HVAC Systems Design at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology prepares learners for advanced roles in the HVAC sector, focusing on the design, optimisation, and innovation of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, systems. The qualification covers a wide range of topics, including: Admission to this qualification requires a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. The qualification duration is typically one to two years (full-time) and includes both theoretical coursework and practical design projects. Qualification outline: This qualification focuses on advanced HVAC systems design, optimization, and innovation. Knowledge: Deep understanding of thermal system design, energy simulation, and environmental control. Emphasis on green building practices and refrigeration applications. Skills: Proficiency in advanced engineering concepts, design and optimization of HVAC systems, and the application of sustainability principles in engineering projects. Competencies: Ability to innovate in the field of HVAC design, with a strong emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainability. Similarities: Differences: Canada The Advanced Diploma in HVAC Engineering Technology from the British Columbia Institute of Technology is designed to equip learners with the skills necessary to design, analyse, and manage HVAC systems. The qualification includes modules on: The qualification is delivered over two years (full-time) and combines lectures, laboratory work, and project-based learning. Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of HVAC design and control, refrigeration technologies, energy conservation, and thermal comfort. Skills: Capabilities in analysing and managing HVAC systems, applying energy management techniques, and implementing sustainable technologies in buildings. Competencies: Preparedness for designing, analysing, and managing HVAC systems with a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. Similarities: Differences: Conclusion: In conclusion, while all three qualifications aim to address the global need for energy-efficient and sustainable HVAC management, the South African qualification stands out for its vocational focus, structured curriculum, and emphasis on practical skills development and workplace experience. The South African qualification compares well and is well-aligned with international standards and prepares learners for immediate and effective impact in the HVAC sector. |
| ARTICULATION OPTIONS |
| This qualification provides opportunities for horizontal, diagonal and vertical articulation options.
Horizontal Articulation: Vertical Articulation: There are no vertical articulation possibilities within the OQSF as there are no NQF level 9 or 10 qualifications in the OQSF. Diagonal Articulation: Master of Engineering in Energy, NQF level 9. |
| NOTES |
| Additional Legal or Physical Entry Requirements:
Criteria for the accreditation of providers The curriculum title and code are: Energy Advisor (Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System Optimisation), 214105-006-00-00. Encompassed Trade: Assessment Quality Partner (AQP) The Energy & Water Sector Education Training Authority (EWSETA). |
| LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: |
| NONE |
| PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: |
| This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here. |
| NONE |
| All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source. |