The United for Efficiency (U4E) initiative has released two updated publications to assist policymakers in developing effective energy efficiency regulations for electric motor systems. These revised editions build upon the originals first published in 2019.
The updated Policy Guide provides essential background information on energy-efficient motors and motor systems, while the Model Regulation Guidelines offer a structured framework for developing policies that drive efficiency improvements. These resources focus on motors, variable speed drives (VSDs), pumps, fans, and air compressors—key components in industrial and commercial applications worldwide.
Electric motor systems account for a significant portion of global electricity consumption, presenting a tremendous opportunity to reduce energy waste, lower costs, and cut carbon emissions. By adopting well-designed regulations and policies, countries can make substantial progress toward achieving their energy efficiency and sustainability goals.
“Electric motor systems play a vital role in powering industries, infrastructure, and services around the world. With electricity consumption from industrial motors in emerging and developing economies projected to rise by 40% by 2040, there is an urgent need for smart policies,” said Patrick Blake, UNEP U4E Programme Manager. He continued: “The updated Policy Guide and Model Regulation Guidelines provide policymakers with the tools to deliver significant impact—potentially saving up to 187 TWh of electricity annually and avoiding 185 million tonnes of carbon emissions by 2040. These resources reflect the latest technical and policy advancements to help countries accelerate progress toward their climate and development goals.”
“As a leading global organization on energy efficiency and its many benefits, the International Copper Association is proud to have contributed to the creation of these important resources,” said Steven Kukoda, Executive Vice President – Membership and Partnerships at ICA. “Motors are everywhere in our daily lives, in particular in industrial settings. Efficient motors reduce energy costs and increase the competitiveness of businesses, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions—a true win-win.”
To introduce these updated resources, U4E hosted a webinar on October 23 last year featuring experts and policymakers who discussed the latest advancements in energy-efficient motors and motor systems. The event provided a platform to explore energy-efficient technologies’ benefits, share policy implementation insights, and examine how updated guidelines align with technological progress and best practices.
During the session, Ms. Pamela Castillo, an Efficient Transport and Standards Unit professional at the Ministry of Energy, Chile, shared insights on Chile’s experience with Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards for Electric Motors. Ms. Gürsu Sezen Torun, an Industry and Technology Expert from the Ministry of Industry and Technology in Türkiye, discussed initiatives to promote energy-efficient motors in small and medium-sized enterprises.
Ajit Advani, from the International Copper Association, and Maarten van Wekhoven, International Motor Expert, provided an overview of the two newly released publications. From the U4E team, Rocio Soledad Garcia and Madeleine Edl presented examples of U4E activities that apply model regulation guidelines and moderate the webinar.
The webinar was designed for policymakers, technical officers, experts, and advisors from developing and emerging economies interested in adopting new policies or strengthening existing regulations to promote energy efficiency. For those who missed the live session, webinar materials are available here.
With these new resources, U4E continues to support governments and stakeholders in their efforts to implement effective policies that reduce energy consumption, lower costs, and mitigate environmental impact. Policymakers are encouraged to leverage the Policy Guide and Model Regulation Guidelines to drive positive change in their respective regions.