Boston—A consortium made up of motor industry manufacturers and service centers, trade associations, electric utilities and government agencies announced the initiation of the Motor Decisions Matter campaign at the Electrical Apparatus Service Assn. convention.

This nationwide campaign encourages the use of sound motor management and planning as a tool for cutting energy costs. Campaign organizers report that energy costs represent 97 percent of the total operating expenses over the life of a motor.

According to the Department of Energy, 63 percent of the electricity used in industry is consumed by electric motors. The DOE estimates that these costs could be reduced by 18 percent with proper motor system management.

Often at the time of motor failure, a manager will purchase a lower-cost and less efficient replacement if there are no plans in place. The campaign promotes developing a motor management plan with the assistance of their local distributor, repair center, or utility representative. A motor management plan addresses common decisions — including when a motor should be repaired or replaced with a more efficient one — before equipment failure, ensuring motor availability, less down-time, and lower energy costs.

Research has shown, however, that many motor decision-makers are not aware of energy-efficient motors or their benefits, reports campaign sponsor, Consortium for Energy Efficiency. According to CEE, a recent study shows that only 19 percent of personnel at U.S. industrial facilities are even aware of premium efficiency motors. Of customers writing specifications for motor purchases, only two-thirds included efficiency in their specifications.

The National Energy Manufacturers Assn. recently released a premium efficiency specification and brand called NEMA Premium™. Manufacturers can produce motors that meet or exceed these standards to qualify as NEMA Premium.

Premium efficiency motors are typically constructed with superior materials, have tighter tolerances and longer warranties. These motors are not only more efficient, they are more reliable, according to the campaign.

For this reason, Baldor Electric Co. of Fort Smith, Ark., a participant in Motor Decisions Matter, will begin labeling its Super-E® premium efficient motors with a new "EnergyGuide" label, which is similar to the yellow tags found on new home appliances.