NEMA asks DOE to set motor efficiency standards

The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), Rosslyn, Va., its members who manufacture electric motors and a coalition of other groups filed a petition August 15 with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recommending both new and more robust energy-efficiency standards for the types of electric motors used in commercial and industrial applications such as pumps, conveyors, and fans. DOE was mandated to review motor efficiency to make a determination on increased efficiency requirements by the end of this year.

Joining NEMA in the petition were the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE), the Appliance Standards Awareness Project (ASAP), Earthjustice, Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Alliance to Save Energy (ASE), Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance, Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships, and Northwest Power and Conservation Council,

The petition seeks increased standards for some motors and a significant increase in the scope of motors that will be covered by efficiency standards.