Why Do You Need NERC Continuing Education?
The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) ensures North America receives a consistent electricity supply. The organization is supported by the Federal Regulatory Commission to maintain reliability standards for most of Canada’s and the United States' power systems.
Whether you are a seasoned professional or new to the industry, NERC continuing education (CE) offers invaluable opportunities to enhance your knowledge, skills, and credentials. In this blog, we explore the importance of NERC CE, how it benefits individuals and organizations, and the NERC CE requirements.
WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF NERC CE?
Continuing education plays a big role in maintaining the competence and expertise of professionals in any field, and this is especially true in the energy sector. NERC continuing education is important for several reasons:
1. REGULATORY COMPLIANCE
NERC requires professionals to meet specific continuing education requirements to ensure they remain knowledgeable about the latest standards, regulations, and best practices. Compliance with these requirements is not only a legal obligation but also a vital component of maintaining the integrity and reliability of the power grid.
2. ENHANCED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
The energy sector is constantly evolving with new technologies, methodologies, and regulatory changes. NERC continuing education helps professionals stay up to date with these advancements, ensuring they possess the skills and knowledge necessary to perform their duties effectively.
3. RISK MANAGEMENT
A well-educated workforce is better equipped to identify and mitigate risks associated with the operation of the power grid. NERC continuing education provides training on the latest risk management strategies and techniques, helping to prevent outages, equipment failures, and other potential threats to grid reliability.
WHAT ARE THE NERC CE REQUIREMENTS?
NERC has established specific continuing education requirements to ensure that professionals in the energy sector maintain a high level of competence and are up to date with the latest industry standards and practices.
These requirements vary depending on the role and responsibilities of the individual. Here are the key components of NERC continuing education requirements:
ELIGIBLE CREDENTIALS
NERC requires credentialed professionals, such as those holding a NERC System Operator Certification, to complete a certain number of continuing education hours (CEHs) within a specified period to maintain their certification.
The specific number of hours and the types of courses required can vary based on the certification type and the operator's job responsibilities.
DOCUMENTATION AND REPORTING
Credentialed professionals must maintain accurate records of their completed continuing education hours and submit this documentation to NERC or an approved certification body. This ensures that all required training has been completed and that certifications remain valid.
NERC CERTIFICATION RENEWAL
NERC certifications typically need to be renewed every three years. During this period, professionals must complete the required number of continuing education hours to be eligible for renewal.
APPROVED PROVIDERS
Continuing education courses must be provided by NERC-approved education providers, like 360training. These providers meet NERC's standards for content quality and relevance, ensuring that the training is effective and up to date.
THE BENEFITS OF NERC TRAINING
NERC training provides a multitude of benefits for both individuals and organizations involved in the energy sector. Here are some of the key benefits:
IMPROVED GRID RELIABILITY
A well-trained workforce is better equipped to manage and mitigate risks, handle emergencies, and maintain the stability of the power grid. NERC training focuses on critical areas such as emergency operations, system protection, and reliability standards, all of which are essential for ensuring grid reliability.
CAREER ADVANCEMENT
For individuals, NERC training offers opportunities for professional growth and career advancement. Completing NERC-certified courses and maintaining certification can enhance a professional’s resume, making them more competitive in the job market and opening doors to higher-level positions.
OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY
Organizations that invest in NERC training for their employees benefit from improved operational efficiency. Well-trained employees are better equipped to perform their tasks accurately and efficiently, reducing the likelihood of errors and increasing overall productivity.
ADAPTABILITY TO TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES
The energy sector is continuously evolving with new technologies and innovations. NERC training ensures that professionals are up to date with these advancements, enabling them to effectively integrate new technologies into their operations and stay ahead of industry trends.
ORGANIZATIONAL REPUTATION
Organizations that prioritize NERC training demonstrate a commitment to excellence, safety, and reliability. This commitment enhances their reputation within the industry, attracting clients, partners, and top talent who value these qualities.
NERC CONTINUING EDUCATION BY 360TRAINING
NERC Continuing Education (CE) courses by 360training are NERC-approved and are designed to help students complete the number of CE hours they need to maintain their certification. Each passing student will also receive a certification of completion unless stated otherwise. Sign up today!
