CEA Study Guide 2026
Everything you need to pass the CEA exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.
📋 CEA Exam Format at a Glance
📚 CEA Topics to Study (69)
✍️ Sample CEA Questions & Answers
1. Under the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act (PURPA), utilities are required to purchase power from qualifying facilities (QFs) at what rate?
PURPA requires utilities to purchase QF power at the utility's avoided cost — the cost the utility would have incurred to generate or purchase that power elsewhere.
2. Which type of energy audit involves a detailed on-site inspection?
A Level 2 energy audit, also known as an Energy Survey and Analysis, involves a more detailed on-site inspection and comprehensive analysis compared to a preliminary audit. It includes a thorough review of energy consumption data, facility operations, and potential energy conservation measures. This level of audit typically provides a financial analysis of recommended improvements, offering a clear path for energy efficiency investments.
3. IPMVP Option A (Retrofit Isolation – Key Parameter Measurement) involves what approach?
Option A measures key performance parameters (e.g., power draw) while stipulating less critical parameters (e.g., operating hours) from historical data.
4. What tool is commonly used to measure electrical energy consumption?
A power meter is a specialized device used to measure the electrical power consumption of appliances, circuits, or entire facilities. It provides readings on voltage, current, power factor, and kilowatt-hours, which are essential data points for understanding and auditing electrical energy usage. Accurate measurements from a power meter are crucial for identifying energy waste and quantifying potential savings.
5. What does a positive Net Present Value (NPV) indicate about an energy project?
A positive NPV means the discounted future savings exceed the initial investment, indicating the project adds financial value.
6. Which end-use sector typically offers the greatest potential for demand response in the U.S.?
Commercial HVAC systems represent the largest controllable load in the U.S. commercial sector, offering significant thermal mass for demand response flexibility.