The Climate Imperative

Addressing climate change is imperative for the survival and well-being of our planet and future generations. The consequences of unchecked climate change include more frequent and severe extreme weather events, rising sea levels inundating coastal communities, disruptions to global food and water supplies, and the loss of biodiversity. Climate change also exacerbates existing social and economic inequalities, impacting vulnerable populations disproportionately.

By taking swift and comprehensive action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, we can mitigate these threats and build a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable world for all. Among the quickest, least expensive, and most impactful near- and long-term means for doing so is to increase the energy efficiency of electric motors.

Electric motors themselves do not contribute directly to climate change, as they do not emit greenhouse gases or other harmful pollutants. However, the electricity used to power electric motors is often generated from fossil fuels, such as coal and natural gas, which do contribute to climate change.

When fossil fuels are burned to generate electricity, they release carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat and cause the Earth’s temperature to rise, leading to global warming and climate change.

Electric motors are used in a wide variety of applications, including data centers, Agricultural Ventilation, industrial machinery, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems, transportation, and appliances. As a result, electric motors consume a significant amount of the electricity produced globally and this amount is increasing.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), electric motors account for around 45% of global electricity consumption, making them the largest single end-use of electricity. This includes both AC and DC motors of all sizes, from small motors used in appliances and electronics to large motors used in industrial processes and transportation.

Electric motors play a significant role in global energy consumption, and efforts to improve their efficiency can lead to significant energy savings and reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.