CEP Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CEP facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is the primary function of an energy market? → Facilitate energy trade
2. How can contract disputes be minimized? → Use clear terms and communication
3. What is the primary purpose of NERC (North American Electric Reliability Corporation) standards in energy procurement? → Ensuring the reliability and security of the bulk power system
4. Which building rating system is most specifically focused on energy performance and commonly used for commercial real estate benchmarking in the US? → ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager
5. How does the CEP body of knowledge relate to daily professional practice? → It provides the foundational framework guiding decision-making and standard practices
6. Which U.S. federal agency regulates the interstate transmission of electricity and approves transmission tariffs? → Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)
7. Which procurement strategy is most appropriate for a company with strong ESG commitments and a desire for additionality in renewable energy? → Signing a long-term virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA)
8. When assessment results for a Certified Energy Procurement Professional evaluation are inconclusive, the BEST practice is to: → Conduct additional assessment using alternative methods
9. How does the CEP body of knowledge relate to daily professional practice? → It provides the foundational framework guiding decision-making and standard practices
10. What is a wholesale energy market? → Large-scale energy trading
11. What is the difference between regulated and deregulated energy markets? → Regulated have controls; deregulated allow competition
12. Which factor most directly affects a buyer's negotiating leverage when procuring energy from retail suppliers? → The buyer's load size, credit quality, and contract term flexibility
13. A 'tolling agreement' in power generation gives the buyer the right to: → Supply fuel to a generator and receive the resulting electricity output
14. When planning a project in Certified Energy Procurement Professional, which element should be established FIRST? → Clear objectives, scope, and success criteria
15. A buyer locks in a fixed price for natural gas six months ahead but spot prices drop significantly at delivery. Which risk has materialized? → Opportunity cost risk
16. Which technology is primarily used to store electricity generated by intermittent renewables for later dispatch? → Lithium-ion battery energy storage systems (BESS)
17. Which of the following best describes a 'force majeure' clause in an energy supply contract? → A provision excusing performance obligations due to extraordinary, unforeseeable events
18. In energy budget forecasting, which method uses historical energy use per unit of output (e.g., kWh/sq ft) to project future consumption? → Top-down intensity benchmarking
19. What is the MOST effective way for new CEP professionals to build competency? → Combining formal education, mentored practice, and ongoing professional development
20. A manufacturer with highly seasonal energy demand should prioritize which contract feature? → A swing or tolerance band allowing volume variation
21. What is operational risk in energy procurement? → Process or system failures
22. Which regulatory body oversees compliance for natural gas interstate pipeline transportation rates in the US? → FERC
23. What is the main goal of procurement strategies? → Obtain best value and terms
24. Which demand-side management strategy involves shifting energy-intensive operations to periods of lower grid demand or lower electricity prices? → Load shifting
25. How can energy buyers mitigate price risk? → Futures contracts and hedging
26. What is the main disadvantage of a 'block and index' energy contract structure? → The indexed portion exposes the buyer to market price fluctuations
27. How should a CEP professional manager address underperformance? → Provide timely, specific feedback with support and a clear improvement plan
28. In Certified Energy Procurement Professional, what is the PRIMARY purpose of conducting an initial assessment? → To establish a baseline and identify needs for appropriate action
29. What is the role of compliance audits? → Verify adherence and improve
30. What is contract management? → Overseeing contract lifecycle