Energy Independence and Security Act Synopsis The Energy Independence and Security Act was signed into law in 2007. This law radically affects the energy efficiency mandates for electric motors. The law will take effect on December 19, 2010.
Section 340 (13 ) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (42 USC 6311 (13)) was amended to include general purpose electric motors, subtype I, which includes all NEMA-type motors; general purpose electric motors, subtype II, which includes non-standard electric, U-frame, design-C, close-coupled footless vertical solid shaft, non-standard voltage, and 8-pole motors; and specialty motor designs.
Explanation of Motor Categories
General Purpose Electric Motor (Subtype I)Any electric motor that meets the definition of “general purpose” motor as established by DOE in its final rule codified in 10 CFR 431 in effect on December 19, 2007.
General Purpose Electric Motor (Subtype II)Any electric motor incorporating the design elements of a general purpose electric motor (subtype I) into either of the following motor designs: U-frame motor, design-C, close-coupled pump, footless, vertical solid shaft normal thrust (tested in a horizontal configuration), 8-pole (900 RPM), and poly-phase 600 V and below (Other than 230 or 460 V).
Summary of Policy Changes
All standard EPACT efficiency motors (subtype 1) shall meet the minimum NEMA premium efficiency standards as defined in NEMA MG-1 (2006) Table 12-12. This will apply to motors from 1 to 200 HP. In addition, the minimal efficiency for all motors will be changed to meet Tare 1 design.
All motors rated at 201 to 500 HP that are manufactured for use in the United States and its territories shall meet the EPACT (2007) efficiency levels as established by the USC policy. The nominal full load efficiency is defined in NEMA MG-1(2006) Table 12-11. Standard efficiency motors will no longer be acceptable.
Fire-pump motors shall meet the EPACT (2007) standards. The nominal full-load efficiency requirements are defined in NEMA MG-1 (2006) Table 12-11.
The following motors which were previously excluded from energy legislation are now included in the Energy Policy and Conversation Act of 2007. These motors will now be required to meet the energy efficiency standards based on NEMA MG-1 (2006) Table 12-11 as the minimum nominal efficiency.
