From July 1, 2023, the International Energy Class (IE) requirements for electric motors will be further tightened to improve the energy efficiency of products in the EU.
The Commission Directive (EU) 2019/1781 for more energy-efficient electric motors and drives entered into force on July 1, 2021 and has been implemented gradually with the final phase being introduced from July 1, 2023.
The new rules from July 1, 2023
The directive covers induction motors (AC motors) with:
- Single speed of 50 Hz, 60 Hz or 50/60 Hz
- 2 to 8 poles
- 1-phase or 3-phase
- Power between 0.12 kW and 1000 kW
- Voltage from 50 V to 1000 V
The new regulation does not cover certain motor types, including PMDC motors, DC battery-powered motors, motors with mechanical commutators, motors for handheld equipment and motors specifically designed for cars.
From July 1, 2023, the following rules apply:
- All electric motors between 75 kW and 200 kW produced and sold in the EU must have an energy efficiency class equivalent to at least IE4 – the second highest energy efficiency level on the IE scale specified in IEC 60034-30. The EU thus becomes the first region in the world to make the international IE4 energy efficiency class mandatory for certain electric motors.
- Explosion-proof motors (also called Ex motors or ATEX motors) from 0.12 kW to 1000 kW with 2, 4, 6 or 8 poles, as well as single-phase motors from 0.12 kW and above, must at least meet the energy efficiency requirements of IE2.
In the EU, there are around 8 billion electric motors that use almost 50% of the electricity produced in the EU. That’s why efficient motors and drives are an important contribution to the fight against climate change. The Commission estimates that the directive will save 40 million tons of CO2 annually.
What does this mean for you as a customer?
The new rules only apply to motors produced after July 1, 2023, which means that you as a customer can still receive motors in energy efficiency classes IE2 and IE3 – as long as there are still some in stock.
You are always welcome to contact us on 74 42 18 64 for more information about the new directive.
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