May 20, 2016 -- The American Institute of Architects (AIA), Public Architecture, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have partnered to connect building owners seeking ENERGY STAR certification with licensed professionals willing to provide pro bono verification services.

AIA is offering participating architects up to 8 Health, Safety, Welfare (HSW) continuing education units (CEUs) – representing a major proportion of their annual requirement for continuing professional licensure! Engineers in licensure states with continuing education requirements may also be eligible to take advantage of CEU credits.

WHO: Licensed professionals can further use this opportunity to:

• Build relationships and name recognition with nonprofit building owners and managers.
• Receive national recognition through a listing on the ENERGY STAR Licensed Professional Directory.
• Earn eligibility for ENERGY STAR SPP partnership for your company.
• Help an organization of your choice by performing a visible public service.
• Help reduce carbon emissions in buildings.
• Build a marketable skill verifying ENERGY STAR certification applications.

HOW:

1. View a no-cost, on-demand ENERGY STAR recorded training provided by EPA about how to verify an application. Complete a short quiz.

2. Use these instructions to find a project and validate one or more ENERGY STAR certification applications on a pro bono basis.

3. Secure a letter from the building owner confirming the pro bono work.

4. For more information, visit www.energystar.gov/probono

About The American Institute of Architects
Founded in 1857, members of the American Institute of Architects consistently work to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through nearly 300 state and local chapters, the AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public well being.  Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards. The AIA provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and business as well as engaging civic and government leaders, and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation and world. Visit www.aia.org.

About Public Architecture
Public Architecture’s 1+ program challenges architecture and design firms nationwide to pledge a minimum of 1% of their time to pro bono service, or 20 hours per year for each participating staff member. 1+ connects firms willing to give of their time with nonprofit organizations in need of design assistance. www.publicarchitecture.org

About ENERGY STAR
ENERGY STAR® is the simple choice for energy efficiency. For more than 20 years, people across America have looked to EPA’s ENERGY STAR program for guidance on saving energy, saving money, and protecting the environment. Behind each blue label is a product, building, or home that is independently certified to use less energy and cause fewer of the emissions that contribute to climate change. Join the millions already making a difference at energystar.gov.