Policy recommendations to accelerate the replacement of inef-ficient electric motors in the EU

Abstract

Electric motors service longer than is generally assumed, resulting in large numbers of inefficient motors remaining in service. Replacing them faster would free up additional energy savings – a contribution not to be overlooked in view of the energy efficiency objectives set out at COP28. The savings potential is even greater if the entire motor system is optimized at the same time. The EU-funded initiative EU-MORE conducted a review of current policy measures stimulating motor replacement in EU Member States, on the basis of publicly available data sources and with the help of national experts. The identified measures were analysed for their approach, impact, and the lessons learned. The review revealed that support measures of a financial nature formed the large majority, while it is questionable whether these are still the most effective in times of high electricity prices. The lack of insight into the benefits of motor replacement is much less addressed. A significant proportion of the identified measures address industrial energy efficiency in general, often without mentioning motor replacement as an eligible measure. Only a few countries have developed policy instruments specifically promoting a system approach to motor replacement. The review is followed by recommendations aiming to tackle these shortcomings and build on the success factors of existing policies.