Energy efficiency can lead the drive to net zero
ABB is a Business Reporter client.
High-efficiency drives and electric motors will provide the first fuel for decarbonisation
The decarbonisation movement has three key thrusts: developing clean, renewable energy sources, converting carbon-intensive applications and improving energy efficiency. Because it’s less tangible, this third factor can sometimes be overlooked. However, it’s arguably the area with the most untapped potential. Most importantly, significant improvements in energy efficiency can be achieved by using existing, readily available technology, such as variable speed drives (VSDs) paired with high-efficiency electric motors.
Energy efficiency is critical in the fight to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and adopting energy efficiency measures can have an almost immediate impact.
One area where energy efficiency can make a very significant difference is the millions of electric motors that drive machines, compressors, fans, pumps and conveyors in virtually every industrial sector, consuming around 45 per cent of the world’s electricity. Too many of these motor-driven systems are based on outdated and inefficient technology that wastes energy unnecessarily.
A simple and very cost-effective measure is to use a VSD to match the motor speed to the actual demands of the process. Without a VSD, the motor runs constantly and uneconomically at full speed, regardless of need, or has to be slowed down by mechanical controls, which wastes energy. Typically, a drive will reduce energy usage by 25 per cent, yet currently, only about 23 per cent of the world’s motors are paired with a drive. Addressing this gap is particularly important as the number of motors is expected to double by 2040.
High-efficiency technology to step up energy savings
Further energy savings are realised when a VSD is paired with a modern, high-efficiency motor. In 2021, the EU’s Ecodesign Directive set IE3 as the new minimum efficiency standard for a wide range of industrial motors. However, it is already possible to take the next step to the even more efficient IE5-rated technology.
For example, an Australian aquatic centre upgraded to ABB VSDs packaged with IE5 synchronous reluctance motors and is quickly finding its investment is paid back with energy savings. By replacing old motors and drives used in the pool filtration and water circulation system, HVAC central plant and greywater system, the centre now expects yearly energy cost savings of $36,000 AUD and a reduction of 77 tonnes of carbon emissions.
To support energy efficiency initiatives, it is important to take advantage of the latest developments in sensors, data analytics and connectivity. This enables the real-time monitoring of motor and drive performance for informed decisions regarding the condition of assets. Data-driven decisions also help to maximise resource efficiency and energy usage, contributing to a low-carbon future.
Raising energy efficiency awareness
A recent study highlighted that if the world’s 300 million industrial motor-driven systems were replaced with optimised, high-efficiency equipment, global electricity consumption could be reduced by up to 10 per cent. That roughly covers more than 90 per cent of the annual consumption of the entire EU.
ABB launched the Energy Efficiency Movement in 2021. This is a multi-stakeholder initiative to raise awareness of the benefits of energy efficiency solutions to accelerate the transition towards decarbonisation. HHHighly efficient motor and drive technology will give the industry a head start.
— Tuomo Hoysniemi, Division President, Drive Products at ABB Motion
To learn more, visit energyefficiencymovement.com.
This article originally appeared on Business Reporter. Image credits: Courtesy of ABB
