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ASAP

Last Updated: October 2007
See the federal standards main page to view current status

Federal standards on electric motors were adopted in the Energy Policy Act of 1992 and took effect in 1997 for most motors (in 1999 for certain specialized motors).  The standards cover 1-200 horsepower motors and require these to meet a “high efficiency” specification previously set by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA). In 2007, NEMA and efficiency advocates reached consensus on a revision to these standards.  This agreement calls for 1-200 hp motors to meet a higher standard (the “NEMA premium” specification) and for motors of 200-500 horsepower and several other types of motors not included in the 1992 law to meet the NEMA “high efficiency” specification.

• Federal Documentation (DOE Web site)

Update
In December 2007, the Congress enacted H.R. 6, requiring an increase in the efficiency of electric motors.  Effective December 2010, general purpose motors between 1 and 200 horsepower (HP) must meet National Electric Manufacturers Association (NEMA) premium efficiency levels.  In addition, many motor types and sizes excluded from prior federal standards must meet the EPACT 1992 standard levels.  (February 2008)