Ecodesign Regulations For Electric Motors
On July 1, 2021, updated regulations governing the energy efficiency requirements of new electric motors were published. This guide explains the changes and the implications for users of Electric motors.
Across the European Union and the United Kingdom, it is estimated that some eight billion motors are in use. Together, they are believed to use around 50% of all the electricity generated in the two regions.
The amount of energy consumed by motor-driven systems represents a significant opportunity to contribute to global targets for reductions in CO2 emissions. In 2009, this was recognised by the European Commission with the introduction of new regulations under the Ecodesign Directive governing the minimum efficiency requirements for low-voltage motors newly placed on the market.
The UK has followed the regulation on ecodesign for electric motors during its time as a member state and continues to do so following Brexit. This means that all motors within the regulation’s scope which are sold in the UK must meet its requirements.
Since it was first introduced, the regulation on ecodesign for electric motors has seen a phased expansion in its scope where electric motors are concerned, with amendments in 2011, 2015 and 2017.