A tremendous opportunity for energy savings exists by addressing the efficiency of the entire motor system, not just the motor itself. CEE's Motor Systems Initiative, launched in December 1999, is designed to help capture the energy savings associated with compressed air, pump, fan and blower systems.

Electric motor-driven systems consume 23 percent of all electricity sold in the United States, making up the largest single category of electric end-use in America – by far. According to the U.S. Dept. of Energy, industrial motor energy use could be reduced 11-18 percent (62-104 billion kWh per year) if industrial facilities took advantage of all available efficiency measures. These projected savings are valued at $3-5 billion per year and would decrease annual carbon emissions by 15-26 million metric tons.

Approximately 28 percent of the savings opportunity can be achieved through more efficient motors; the rest can be addressed through motor systems opportunities. By improving motor system efficiency, industrial customers benefit from improved control production processes, reduction in waste materials and improved environmental compliance.

Building on CEE's premium-efficiency motor specifications and EERE's's BestPractices Motor Program (formerly Motor Challenge), the initiative is intended to increase awareness of energy saving motor system technologies and encourage their widespread adoption. A motor systems tool kit and marketing campaign (targeted to the needs of selected industries) are being developed through the initiative. Member-sponsored pilot projects are designed to yield documented approaches to address specific industries and are expected to provide additional tools to optimize and market motor system savings opportunities.

CONTACT
For more information about CEE's Motor Systems Initiative, contact Ilene Mason at 617-589-3949, ext 225.