Efficient motors can rake in millions

As we have been saying, simple measures go a long way in tackling complex issues. Sometimes it can be so simple as to be tough to discern!

Electric motors and VSDs account for two-thirds of industrial electricity use in the UK and 40% of all electricity consumption globally and can cost ten times as much as they cost to run every year.

But two new guides from the Carbon Trust show businesses how to make reductions to their annual energy bills. A medium-sized business spending £50,000 a year on electricity could save 10% on its costs by installing VSDs and higher efficiency motors.

Motors often don’t need to be working at 100% capacity, so VSDs help save energy by slowing motors down by 20%, for example, which can cut energy use by half. Timers can also be used to switch off motor-powered equipment when not in use.

According to the Carbon Trust, the UK food and drink industry could save up to £70 million a year through such measures, while more energy intensive sectors like plastics, rubber and chemicals could save up to £270 million annually.