Are Sustainability Facility Professional (SFP) Certifications Worth It?

This post will explore SFP certifications, what they are, their associated costs, and the job opportunities they can lead to. By the end, you will have the answer to whether SFP certifications are worth it or not.

Did you know that buildings contribute 33% of greenhouse gas emissions and about 40% of global energy consumption? This means that buildings are among the primary contributors to the world’s decline in environmental health.

Businesses that “go green” not only contribute to a better, greener future but also save a lot on utility costs. They can also enhance their reputation in the industry, making them a more trustworthy business that ordinary people will come to appreciate, thus increasing popularity and sales or profits.

However, sustainability facility management is a complex role. It requires a skilled professional to complete the job efficiently and effectively. One of the most effective ways to gain and prove area expertise is to pursue Sustainability Facility Professional certifications.

So, is SFP certification worth it?

What Is an SFP Certification?

The SFP – Sustainability Facility Professional certification is a credential designed for those who manage facilities—office buildings, hospitals, factories, you name it—and want to make these places more energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and sustainable overall. It is awarded by the IFMA or International Facility Management Association.

Why is this needed? Well, buildings use a ton of energy. They produce a lot of waste. And today’s companies (and their customers) care about reducing carbon footprints, cutting costs, and staying green. The SFP certification teaches you the best practices to do all of that—and prove to employers that you are an expert when it comes to sustainability.

So what’s actually in this certification? What would you learn? What skills would you walk away with?

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The SFP certification dives into three main areas:

1. Sustainable Facility Management

This covers the big-picture stuff: why sustainability matters, how to make a business case for green building practices, and what role facility managers play in reducing energy, waste, and resource use.

2. Managing Sustainable Facilities

Now we get practical: water conservation, energy savings, indoor air quality, waste stream management, eco-friendly materials—the whole toolkit for making a building “green” without breaking the bank.

3. Operating Sustainable Facilities

Here’s where things get hands-on: day-to-day operations, sustainable purchasing policies, audits, maintenance, and measuring how sustainable your facility truly is (and how to improve it).

You also learn how to write sustainability reports, develop action plans, and even influence company culture when it comes to “going green.”

Here’s a quick list of the main topics you’ll encounter while studying for the SFP:

• Energy efficiency practices
• Water conservation techniques
• Waste management
• Green purchasing policies
• Indoor environmental quality (air, lighting, comfort)
• Building automation and technology for sustainability
• Sustainability metrics and performance monitoring
• Communication strategies to promote sustainable practices within an organization
• Long-term sustainability planning and reporting

How Much Does It Cost to Get SFP Certified?

Before you can enjoy the SFP credential benefits, you must first pay a price. Although the total cost of the certification is not as extensive as a four-year degree, it’s not something you should overlook.

The exact cost varies on several factors, including your location and membership status. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect to spend for this credential when you’re from the United States/Canada:

• IFMA Membership (Professional/Associate): US$219 /year
• SFP Credential Program (Member Rate): US$1,095
• SFP Credential Program (Non-member Rate): US$1,395

Joining IFMA as a member before purchasing the credential program can save you up to $300.

Optional add-ons like workshops, study groups, and extra materials can drive this higher.

It’s not pocket change, for sure—but compared to other certifications in facility management or sustainability (like LEED or CFM), it’s fairly reasonable.

If you’re lacking in financial resources, there are always financial aid opportunities when you decide to pursue this green building certification for professionals:

1. Employer Reimbursement: Many companies will gladly cover this cost because they benefit from having an SFP-certified pro on staff. They save on energy costs, improve compliance, and get bragging rights for being more sustainable.
2. Tuition Assistance Programs: A few universities and training platforms partner with IFMA and offer payment plans or tuition assistance.
3. Scholarships/Grants: Rare, but possible—especially if you work in government, education, or nonprofit sectors.

So, before paying out of pocket, check with your HR department. You might be pleasantly surprised.

What Are the Career Benefits of an SFP Certification?

Let’s explore the main benefits of earning a sustainability facilities management certification.

1. Vast Job Opportunities

SFP certification opens up a wide range of career paths in both sustainability and facility management. Whether you’re already in the industry or looking to pivot into a greener role, this credential adds serious value to your resume.

Here are just some of the job titles you could qualify for:

• Sustainability Manager
• Facility Manager
• Energy Manager
• Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Officer
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager
• Green Building Project Manager
• Sustainability Analyst
• Maintenance and Operations Supervisor
• Building Performance Consultant
• Facilities Sustainability Coordinator
• Smart Building Specialist
• Environmental Compliance Manager

2. Salary Boosts

One of the best perks of getting your Sustainable facilities management certification is the potential salary increase. While salary depends on location and experience, those with SFP certification typically see higher pay compared to their non-certified peers. For example:

• Facility Managers with an SFP can expect to earn anywhere from $70,000–$100,000 per year, depending on experience.
• Sustainability Managers with SFP certification may earn around $80,000–$120,000 annually.

3. Growing Demand for Sustainability Roles

Official statistics reveal that jobs in sustainability and green energy fields are expected to grow much faster than the average for other industries.

The U.S. Department of Energy also found that, in 2023 alone, the U.S. energy sector employed 8.4 million people—more than 5% of the nation’s workforce. From 2022 to 2023, the sector grew by 3%, outpacing the overall job growth in the economy, which was around 2%.

Here are quick facts:

• Jobs grew across all five major energy technology categories:
  • Electric power generation
  • Transmission, distribution, and storage
  • Fuels
  • Energy efficiency
  • Motor vehicles
• Electric power generation led the way with a 4% employment increase.
• In the fuels sector, petroleum added the most jobs, followed by natural gas.
• The transmission, distribution, and storage category gained about 52,000 jobs.
• The motor vehicles sector, boosted by electric vehicle production, added nearly 60,000 jobs.
• Energy-related construction employment rose 4.5%, nearly double the overall construction sector’s growth rate.
• Energy-related manufacturing jobs grew by 3%, adding over 50,000 new positions.

SFP Certification vs. Other Well-Known Facility Management Certifications

1. SFP vs. CFM (Certified Facility Manager)

• Focus
  • SFP focuses on sustainability, energy efficiency, and implementing green initiatives within facility management. It’s perfect for those looking to specialize in eco-friendly operations.
  • CFM, on the other hand, is much broader, covering all aspects of facility management—from maintenance to budgeting to team management. It’s a more generalist certification.
• Cost:
  • SFP certification cost is generally more affordable, costing around $1,500–$2,000.
  • CFM is pricier, often exceeding $3,000, due to its depth and the advanced knowledge it requires.
• Best For:
  • SFP is ideal for mid-career professionals who are already in facility management roles and want to focus more on sustainability and energy-saving strategies.
  • CFM is best for senior facility managers with years of experience who want a certification that highlights their expertise across the entire spectrum of facility management.

2. SFP vs. FMP (Facility Management Professional)

• Focus:
  • SFP is for those specifically interested in sustainability and energy efficiency in facilities.
  • FMP is an entry-level certification covering basic facility management principles such as operations, maintenance, and project management.
• Cost:
  • SFP is $1,500–$2,000, while FMP tends to be a little more affordable, usually costing around $1,500.
• Best For:
  • SFP is better for those wanting to deepen their knowledge in sustainability and green facility practices.
  • FMP is perfect for new professionals entering the field who need a foundational understanding of facility management.

3. SFP vs. LEED AP (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional)

• Focus:
  • SFP focuses on sustainable facility management practices such as energy efficiency and green building operations within an existing facility.
  • LEED AP is geared toward professionals involved in designing and constructing green buildings. It’s all about green construction practices and obtaining LEED certification for new or renovated buildings.
• Cost
  • SFP costs between $1,500–$2,000.
  • LEED AP is typically more expensive, costing around $2,000–$3,000. However, its focus is more specialized, which contributes to the higher cost.
• Best For:
  • SFP is great for professionals who want to implement sustainable practices in day-to-day building management.
  • LEED AP is best for architects, designers, and builders involved in creating green buildings or upgrading existing structures to meet sustainable design standards.

So, which online certification in sustainability is right for you?

• If your primary interest is making buildings more eco-friendly and energy-efficient, the SFP is your best choice.
• If you’re looking to lead large teams or have a more strategic role in facilities management, the CFM might be your go-to.
• If you’re just starting in the field of facilities management, the FMP gives you the foundational knowledge to get going, while the SFP can help you specialize in sustainability once you’ve gained some experience.
• And, if you’re involved in the construction or renovation of green buildings, the LEED AP certification will be more aligned with your role.

Is the SFP Certification Worth It?

Is this credential worth it for everyone? No. Is it for the right person in the right situation? Absolutely!

So, who benefits the most from the credential?

• Facility Managers in Large Buildings: If you manage office towers, hospitals, hotels, or manufacturing plants.
• Sustainability-Focused Professionals: Want to pivot into green jobs or sustainability roles? This credential shows you’ve got real training, not just good intentions.
• Corporate Energy Consultants: If your job involves finding efficiency or energy savings for clients, this adds serious credibility.
• Anyone in an Industry Pushing for ESG Goals: Companies are setting ESG targets—and they need trained people to meet them.

When it might not be necessary:

• If you work in small facilities, the ROI may be low.
• If your role is purely administrative, not technical or operational.

Tips for Earning an SFP Certification Affordably

Here are a few tips on how to get SFP certified without spending a lot.

1. Look for discounted online programs. Some universities and platforms run seasonal promos on the SFP Learning System. Others offer group discounts if multiple people at your company enroll.
2. Use employer benefits or tuition assistance. Seriously—ask your boss or HR department. A surprising number of companies have education budgets just waiting to be used.
   1. Tip: Frame it like this—”This certification will help me reduce our facility costs by X% through better energy and resource management.” Bosses love that.
3. Consider timing and career goals before enrolling. If you’re job-hunting, this could give you a real edge—but if you’re switching careers away from facilities work, maybe skip it.

Final Thoughts: Should You Get SFP Certified?

The IFMA SFP program is worth it if you are (or plan to be) in facilities, energy management, or sustainability roles. This certification proves you can cut energy costs, improve building performance, and hit corporate sustainability targets. Companies want this. Many even require it now. Plus, you may get a pay bump.

But no—if you’re outside of these fields or if your role doesn’t touch on operations, maintenance, or green policy.

So, what’s next? Check your career path. Ask your boss. See if your company’s going green soon.