Motor and Drive-System Efficiency Regulations: Review of Regulations in the United States and Europe

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE ) issu ed new efficiency regulations in May 2014 [1] for integral horsepower motors effective June 2016. This article will provide an update on these new regulations for 1-500-hp low-voltage (LV) ac induction motors. The scope of coverage has been expanded to cover more configurations than in previous regulations. National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA ) 56 frame-enclosed motors are covered. Motor regulations for Canada and Mexico generally follow what is adopted in the United States. Europe is updating succeeding regulations for LV motors (<1,000 V) and drive systems with an extended product approach from 0.12 to 1,000 kW by 2018. The DOE is also studying pump, fan, and compressor systems and how their efficiency can be regulated. We will provide an overview of the DOE proposals and the new European standard for efficient drive systems if any users wish to follow and become involved with comments. This article will review the motor and system efficiency regulations issued by the DOE and discuss extended product regulations under development by the European Union (EU).