The Least Energy Demand Method as unique tool to evaluate and rate the energy efficiency of the electric drives production

This paper evaluates a method for the assessment and evaluation of energy efficiency of the manufacturing process in the electric drive production as well as a corporate and cross-industry comparison. First, the system for the Least Energy Demand Method will be explained. The basic idea of the calculation is the comparison and evaluation of energy efficiency based on the ratio of the theoretically required energy consumption to the measured energy consumption [8]. The Least Energy Demand Method is subsequently extended with the calculation system to evaluate the relative energy efficiency (REE) of higher levels of perspective. The goal is a comparability of the energy efficiency across machines, plants, locations, companies and sectors through definition of significant key figures. The basis of the derivation of possible saving potentials is the relative energy efficiency [6]. The REE of a level of perspective is calculated on the basis of the REE value of the previous production level as well as according to weighting factors. On the basis of the calculation, as well as subsequent measurements within the company, optimization potentials [10] can be clearly described and traced back to their roots. These optimization potentials are based on exemplary trials presented for a chosen manufacturing chain of an electronic production area [5]. The system of the energy efficiency evaluation during the manufacturing process is applied in the production of stators for bike motors.