Energy advisor

What does an energy advisor do? – Tasks and work environment

An energy advisor works to provide independent and qualified advice on energy efficiency to individuals, companies, and organizations. Tasks include analyzing energy use, suggesting measures to reduce energy consumption, and guiding in questions about renewable energy and climate-smart solutions. Contact with clients often occurs both on-site and via digital channels, and it is common for energy advisors to conduct information campaigns, give lectures, and collaborate with municipal and regional actors. The work environment is characterized by variation between field work, office work, and meetings, where flexibility and good communication skills are central qualities.

Salary development over time

The salary development for energy advisors has varied over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,600 SEK per month, followed by a decrease to 39,000 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the salary has recovered and now stands at 40 500 SEK. This development corresponds to a decrease of about 6% between 2022 and 2023, followed by an increase of just over 3% in the latest year. The changes can partly be explained by market factors such as demand for energy efficiency, changes in public investments, and variations in the educational level among employees. Despite fluctuations, the profession shows stability over time, with relatively small salary differences between genders and a balanced distribution of tasks.

Energy advisor salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 40 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,100 SEK/month (male, private sector employee)
• Highest salary: 46,300 SEK/month (male, private sector worker with research education)
• Hourly wage (average): 243 SEK
• Men: 40 000 SEK/month
• Women: 41 900 SEK/month
• Women earn: 105% of men's salaries
• Regional differences: Data missing

Education and qualifications

To work as an energy advisor, a technical education with a focus on energy, environment, or construction technology is generally required, often at university or college level. Practical experience in energy efficiency, project management, or advising is meritorious, as are courses in environmental technology and sustainable development. Many employers also seek good communication skills and the ability to interpret technical information for different target groups.

• Formal education: Bachelor or master's degree in engineering (3–5 years), preferably with a focus on energy/environment
• Certifications: Courses in energy efficiency and environmental management are advantageous
• Internship: Internships or traineeships in energy or environmental fields provide an advantage
• Prerequisites: Basic technical understanding and interest in sustainable development
• Tips: Combine technical studies with communication courses to strengthen the advising role

Common benefits and compensations

Energy advisors are often offered occupational pension, wellness allowances, and opportunities for professional development through courses and conferences. Flexitime and remote work are common, especially within municipal or regional operations. Other benefits may include subsidized travel, ergonomic workplaces, and extra vacation days depending on the employer.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an energy advisor varies by region and employer. Since the profession is included in categories like fire engineers and building inspectors, the job market is broad, but the number of specific positions for energy advisors is limited. Challenges include staying updated on new legislation, technological developments, and changing energy markets. The ability to communicate complex energy issues to various target groups is crucial, as is collaboration with many types of actors. Uncertainty regarding public investments and project financing can also affect the job market periodically.

Tips for those who want to become an energy advisor

To succeed as an energy advisor, it is good to have an analytical mindset, as it requires quickly identifying energy waste and proposing effective measures. A pedagogical and communicative personality makes it easier to convey complex information to clients and partners. Being solution-oriented and curious about new technology provides advantages in a profession where development is rapid. It is also important to be structured, as the role involves managing many parallel projects and customer contacts. Cooperation skills and flexibility are other valued qualities, especially when tasks shift between field visits and office work. A genuine interest in sustainable development and environmental issues provides extra motivation and credibility in the advising role.

Key facts about Energy Advisor

• Education level: Bachelor or master's degree in engineering with a focus on energy
• Work environment: Varied between office, field, and digital advising
• Typical employment: Permanent employment within municipality, authority, or consulting firm
• Demand: 191 job openings within the profession in 2024
• Gender distribution: Women earn 105% of men's salaries

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as an energy advisor, opportunities include progressing to project manager, energy coordinator, or specialist in energy efficiency. It is also common for experienced advisors to move into roles within municipal administration, consulting firms, or as experts at authorities. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for categories like fire engineers and building inspectors, no separate assessment is made for energy advisors, but there is a stable demand with 191 job openings registered in 2024. Future prospects are influenced by societal development towards increased energy efficiency and climate adaptation, where the expertise of energy advisors continues to be in demand both in public and private sectors.

Frequently asked questions about Energy Advisors

• What is the average salary of an energy advisor?
  - An energy advisor has an average salary of 40 500 SEK/month.
• How do salary differences between women and men look?
  - Women earn on average 41 900 SEK/month and men 40 000 SEK/month, which means women earn 105% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become an energy advisor?
  - Typically, a university or college degree in energy/environment/construction, along with courses in environmental management and communication.
• Are there good future prospects in the profession?
  - There are 191 job openings in 2024, but no separate forecast for energy advisors.
• What is the working environment like for energy advisors?
  - The work environment is varied and involves office work, field visits, and digital advising.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for an energy advisor?
  - The highest salary is 46,300 SEK and the lowest 36,100 SEK per month, depending on experience, education, and employment type.
• What personal qualities are important for the profession?
  - Analytical ability, pedagogical skills, and an interest in sustainable development are key qualities.