Why does energy efficiency matter?

To protect people and nature from the worst climate risks, global warming must be limited to 1.5 °C. Achieving this requires reaching net zero by balancing the greenhouse gases we emit with those that we remove and energy efficiency is the fastest and most cost-effective way to get there.

 

In the electrification of industrial drives and motors, energy efficiency enables higher productivity with lower energy use, reducing operating costs while significantly cutting carbon emissions.

 

As the most effective path to net zero, energy efficiency is essential to limiting global warming and future-proofing industrial operations. Together, through collaboration and innovation, we are accelerating the transition to a smarter, more sustainable energy future.

PRODUCTIVITY IN A LOW CARBON WORLD

The solutions already exist. Motors use nearly half of the world’s electricity, and most of their lifetime cost comes from the energy they consume. Many motors could benefit from being paired with a drive, unlocking significant efficiency gains.

Powering global industry

More than 45% of the world’s electricity is used by electric motors. By improving their efficiency, we can make a major impact on reducing global energy demand and supporting a more sustainable future.

Rising motor demand

By 2040, there will be twice as many electric motors in operation. Smarter, more efficient designs are crucial to meet this demand sustainably.

Smarter energy use

Adopting high-efficiency motor systems can reduce global electricity consumption by up to 10%, driving major progress toward sustainability and energy savings.

Optimizing motor performance

Adding a variable speed drive to pumps, fans or compressors run by motors can typically reduce power consumption by 25%

Fast return on investment

Investing in high-efficiency motors and variable speed drives typically pays back through energy savings within 1-3 years.

Stay compliant with regulations

MEPS (Minimum Energy Performance Standards) for low-voltage motors have played a crucial role in helping countries achieve their energy efficiency and carbon dioxide emissions targets. For motor users, MEPS have driven a general improvement in motor efficiency and made it easier to compare performance levels across different manufacturers.

Highlights from the Efficiency NOW Report

This report, Overcoming internal barriers to industrial energy efficiency, identifies the key barriers to industrial energy efficiency, most notably financial constraints, infrastructure challenges, and skills gaps, while offering a practical roadmap of strategies to overcome these obstacles and turn energy efficiency into a competitive advantage.

Financial concerns

51% believe that the uncertainty about the return on investment for energy efficiency projects hinders their decision-making. ​

Infrastructure

47% believe that growing reliance on IT, data, and software complicates their energy efficiency efforts, requiring more collaboration and causing delays.

Skills

48% believe that the skilled worker shortage hinders energy efficiency ideation and implementation.