Energy efficiency is the decisive factor in electric motor choice, finds ABB research

A majority of energy businesses consider energy efficiency as a critical influence on their choice of electric motors and are either currently investing or planning to invest in sustainability initiatives, according to new research by ABB.

The research study, conducted in collaboration with Sapio Research, surveyed nearly 2,400 global businesses to gain insight into the state of the market around energy efficiency, sustainability, digitalisation, and the key role played by electric motors. A key finding was that 91% of businesses said that energy efficiency now had a critical influence on their choice of electric motors. Furthermore, 94 percent of businesses are either currently investing or planning to invest in sustainability initiatives.

“This survey provides a valuable insight into how businesses are prioritizing energy efficiency not just to meet sustainability targets but also to gain measurable financial returns,” said Stefan Floeck, Division President IEC Low Voltage Motors, ABB Motion.

“ABB is already playing a critical role in this development by demonstrating how investing in state-of-the-art energy-efficient electric motors, such as our IE6 SynRM technology, can enhance operational efficiency and promote sustainable growth. With payback periods often measured in months rather than years the result is a win-win for both the environment and the bottom line.”

The role of electric motors in energy efficiency

In the UAE, Almost 50% of businesses are investing or planning to invest in sustainability and especially energy efficiency. Most are aware of the role that energy efficient motors can play in achieving their sustainability goals, with 78% saying that this influences their choice. Nearly all businesses also recognize that energy efficient motors can add value to their products and business.

An emerging theme throughout the report is that end user businesses place a greater emphasis on sustainability, often due to increased pressure from customers which is reflected through their increased investment in energy efficiency. However, this also translates into what these businesses prioritize when it comes to energy efficient motors, with 88% considering it important that manufacturers can produce an environmental product declaration (EPD).

ABB is addressing this development through EcoSolutions, a comprehensive program designed to provide complete transparency on the environmental impact of its products across their entire lifecycle, from inception through to disposal.

Barriers to adoption

The main barriers preventing businesses from investing in higher efficiency motors are seen as higher upfront costs, concerns around integrating with existing systems and potential disruption in production capacity. Higher upfront cost is more of a barrier for higher turnover businesses.

Cost plays a role as both a barrier and a driver due to the investments required for plant and equipment upgrades. However, 99% of businesses are now tracking the long-term savings as the main return on investment (ROI) from their energy efficiency initiatives, according to ABB.