Green Energy Technology

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Department: Energy Management

Program Type: Manufacturing

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Overview

Curious about how energy works and how it can be used more efficiently? Elgin Community College’s Green Energy Technology program offers several pathways for students interested in working in this growing field. The program provides hands-on experience with solar and wind energy systems, HVAC/R technology, and energy-efficient building systems while preparing students for careers in energy and sustainability.

Through these pathways, you’ll gain hands-on experience working with solar panels, wind turbines, building automation systems, and other energy technologies in the classroom and through real-world internships. The program teaches you how to reduce energy use in buildings while maintaining comfort and efficiency. You’ll explore renewable energy technologies such as solar and wind while learning to install, maintain, and troubleshoot heating and cooling systems. 
This program is accredited by the National Association of Stationary Operating Engineers (NASOE), which enables students to earn a third-class stationary high-pressure steam engineer license. Students also have the opportunity to earn third-party credentials from HVAC Excellence and the North American Technician Excellence (NATE) program.

Program Pathways

Program Options
Program Learning Outcomes
Green Energy Technology - Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree
  • Evaluate energy use in residential and commercial buildings and recommend efficiency and renewable energy solutions.
  • Monitor and troubleshoot energy systems to improve performance and detect issues.
  • Read technical blueprints and program building automation systems for HVAC and lighting.
Renewable Energy - Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree 
  • Assess energy consumption in homes and commercial buildings and suggest improvements using efficient and renewable technologies.
  • Track system performance to identify malfunctions, irregular operation, and opportunities to reduce energy use.
  • Interpret technical diagrams and manage automated systems that control heating, cooling, and lighting.
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration - Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree
  • Follow HVAC safety standards while installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems.
  • Read electrical and mechanical diagrams to test, repair, and optimize HVAC equipment and ductwork.
  • Use specialized tools and techniques to measure, fabricate, and maintain efficient residential and light commercial systems.
Green Energy Technology - Vocational Certificate 
  • This certificate provides hands-on training in renewable energy, HVAC/R systems, and energy-efficient building technologies. Students gain the skills needed to install, maintain, and troubleshoot energy systems in residential and light commercial settings.
Renewable Energy - Basic Vocational Certificate
  • This certificate focuses on hands-on training in solar and wind energy systems, energy efficiency, and sustainable building technologies. Students learn to install, maintain, and optimize renewable energy systems for residential and light commercial applications.
For more information, contact Career and Technical Education Programs at 847-214-7900 or email mtcinquiries@elgin.edu

 

Plan of Study and Course Descriptions

Review the ECC catalog for details about the energy management plan of study and course descriptions.

Associate of Applied Science

Basic Vocational Certificates

Vocational Certificates

What You'll Learn

  • Analyze how energy is used and identify ways to improve efficiency
  • Work with renewable energy systems alongside traditional energy sources
  • Read and interpret technical diagrams and blueprints
  • Program and repair automated heating, cooling, and lighting systems
  • Gain real-world experience through internships that connect you with potential employers 

Frequently Asked Questions

Depending on the pathway, it can take approximately 1 to 2 years to complete a certificate or an Associate degree.

Yes, you’ll work with real equipment and complete internships to gain practical experience.

Jobs include:

  • HVAC Technician
  • Energy Auditor
  • Wind Turbine Technician
  • Roles in the energy efficiency and renewable energy industries

It depends on your chosen program. Energy Management offers two certificate options:

  • Renewable Energy
  • Energy Management

If you’re pursuing the HVAC pathway, you’ll be prepared for key industry certifications such as the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification. A testing fee applies for the EPA 608 exam. Contact George Rosa at 847-214-7871 or visit Building O, Room O153 for more information.

Invest in your future at ECC

Start your path to a high-demand career with an associate degree or certificate. Train at the new Manufacturing and Technology Center opening in Fall 2026. 

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Contact

Admissions & Recruitment

Building B, Room B110
847-214-7385
Fax: 847-608-5458
admissions@elgin.edu

Hours
Monday through Thursday: 8 am to 7 pm
Fridays: 8 am to 4 pm

*Bilingual Admissions Coordinator: 847-214-7689

Contact

Energy Management

847-214-7900