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Joris Cocquyt ,
Global Head of Sales IEC LV Motors Division , ABB why energy efficiency is key why energy efficiency is key why energy efficiency is key why energy efficiency is key
Ongoing energy shortages have led to soaring costs across EMEA this winter , which are threatening the survival of businesses across multiple sectors . Many were looking to the recent COP27 summit for a way forward , but it left a lot of questions unanswered .
There are rising concerns that governments will prioritise cheaper energy – and therefore growth – over their “ Net Zero by 2050 ” targets . However , maintaining our efforts to limit global average temperature rises to 1.5 degrees Celsius is essential . To achieve this , we will need greater efforts and innovative thinking .
This process will involve multiple steps , including electrifying transport and industry , promoting the transition to renewables , and encouraging circular economic thinking . But business leaders also need to ensure that the actions they take are economically viable . There is one underappreciated area I believe can satisfy the needs of both businesses and the planet : energy efficiency .
Adopting the latest energy efficient technology enables us to get more out of our existing energy resources . The latest International Energy Agency ( IEA ) report suggests that energy efficiency could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 40 %
45 %
Electric motors account for total electricity consumption worldwide over the next 20 years . It ’ s no surprise , then , to learn that the IEA deems energy efficiency the “ first fuel ” in our drive towards Net Zero . Here is how industry can lead the charge by investing in and adopting energy-efficient technology .
MORE EFFICIENT MOTORS AND BEYOND Electric motors are the bedrock of modern industry . They run processes across multiple sectors , from steel mills to food and beverage production . Motors are also vital in the heating , ventilation and air conditioning ( HVAC ) systems that keep us warm and cool us down , as well as in the pumps that supply us with fresh water .
Electric motors account for around 45 % of total electricity consumption worldwide . However , of the 300 million motors in service today , many are older , less efficient models that consume more power than they need to . As a result , considerable amounts of energy end up wasted . This makes electric motors ideal targets for new , energy-efficient technologies and processes that will reduce emissions and guarantee returns .
The latest regulations require higher minimum energy efficiency ratings . As of 2021 regulations , most industrial motors within the EU must have an efficiency rating of at least IE3