How new MEPS regulations can benefit businesses that rely on electric motors. Part 2 of a two-part series.
Image by WEG
The new regulations impact low-voltage electric motors in the 0.75 kW to 375 kW range, predominantly two-pole, four-pole, six-pole, and eight-pole motors. Roughly 200,000 electric motor units are sold in South Africa each year, according to the National Economic Development and Labour Council, with almost 70% of them between the 0.75 kW and 11 kW size range.
Yet, very few have stated energy ratings, suggesting that the majority are very inefficient IE1 motors that require frequent maintenance. Under the new regulations, most new motors must adhere to the IE3 standard. These regulations don’t affect current installations, but it might be more economical to replace broken motors with new models rather than repair or rewire them.
“Companies that rely on electric motors won’t have to rip and replace what they have. The new regulations focus on new motors sold in the country. However, when you look at the advantages of IE3 motors, there is good reason to consider upgrades,” says Rodrigo Cetenareski, sales and marketing director at WEG Africa.
Reduced energy and maintenance demands
The costs of owning and running electric motors are incredibly disproportionate. The purchase represents only 2.3% of a motor’s lifetime cost, and maintenance only 1%. Almost 97% of motor costs go to electricity consumption.
IE3-level motors are more efficient than lower-rated models. Even though their margin is only between 4% and 8% to that of an IE1 motor, IE3 motors running for thousands of hours reduce energy losses by as much as 32%. They also produce lower temperatures, radically reducing their maintenance requirements and extending operational lifespans. There are also other peripheral gains, such as lower carbon emissions.
Even though IE3 motors are slightly more expensive than lower-rated motors, they typically recoup the difference in less than five years, under some conditions even by the second year. The same logic resonates when older motors require repair or rewiring, says Cetenareski:
“Rewiring a motor can cost more than half of purchasing an IE3 motor. If you look at the subsequent savings, it makes more economic sense to phase out older motors rather than repair them.”
IE3 motors represent a significant advancement in electric motor technology. By upgrading, companies reduce energy costs, improve sustainability, enhance performance, and comply with regulations.
South Africa’s new MEPS regulations and the widening adoption of IE3 motors will unlock considerably more energy at a time when companies and consumers are looking to lower costs, gain value, and boost resilience.
Source: WEG
