Energy Efficiency Policy Opportunities for Electric Motor-Driven Systems

This paper is the first global analysis of energy consumption and energy efficiency potential of electric motor-driven systems (EMDS). The electric motors and systems they drive are the largest single-energy end use and account for more than 40% of global electricity consumption. There is a huge, untapped potential for energy efficiency in EMDS – around 25% of EMDS electricity use could be saved cost-effectively – which would reduce total global electricity demand by about 10%. However, the energy efficiency of EMDS has been relatively neglected in comparison with other sustainable energy opportunities. It is crucial to scale up the operations and resources committed to realising the vast savings potential of optimised EMDS. This report proposes a comprehensive package of policy recommendations to help governments realise the potential for energy savings in EMDS.