The U.S. Department of Energy in December announced a new collaboration with Google to connect users of Google Search and Google Maps with highly trained home energy technicians recognized as Energy Skilled™.
Energy Skilled is a DOE designation that indicates a worker has the skills needed to perform quality work with modern building systems, leading to reduced energy use and cost.
Energy Skilled recognition signifies training programs and certifications that promote high-performing, reliable and comfortable buildings for Americans.
Through the collaboration with Google, people now seeking information on local heating, ventilation and air conditioning; plumbing; and home energy audit contractors through Google Search or Maps will see a new label on Google Business Profiles to indicate which contracting companies employ one or more employees with a workforce credential that is recognized as Energy Skilled by DOE.
Users can use the new "U.S. Dept. of Energy Recognized" label in Google Business Profiles to find contractors to perform home energy audits and upgrades such as installing heat pumps, heat pump water heaters and more.
More than 20,000 individuals have earned a professional credential from one of the dozens of Energy Skilled-recognized training programs. "This feature takes the guesswork out of finding a qualified technician to perform home upgrades that require specialized training and certifications," DOE said.
A credential that is recognized as Energy Skilled "equips contractors to perform quality work with modern systems and set themselves apart from the field. States may also use Energy Skilled recognition as criteria to determine eligibility for federal workforce development funding and establishing qualified contractor lists."
This collaboration builds on other recently announced DOE resources to assist home energy contractors and their customers with selecting and installing energy-saving equipment and qualify for home upgrade tax credits.
To learn more about Energy Skilled-recognized programs, the benefits of recognition for consumers and contractors, and more, visit the Energy Skilled website.
