Efficiency requirements for electric motors

Since 1. January 2017:

Three‐phase AC motors with rated output of 0,75kW ≤ Pn ≤ 375kW and 2, 4 or 6 poles shall correspond to at least the IE3 efficiency level or IE2 with a variable speed drive (in the following: VSD).

Major exemptions:

  1. Explosion‐proof motors (Ex‐motors)
  2. Brake motors
  3. Submersible motors
  4. Motors completely integrated into a product (whose energy performance cannot be tested independently from the product)
  5. Motors with multi‐winding more specifically pole‐changing winding


Starting from 1. July 2021:

Three‐phase AC motors with rated output of 0,12kW ≤ Pn < 0,75kW and 2, 4, 6 or 8 poles shall correspond to at least the IE2 efficiency level.
Three‐phase AC motors with rated output of 0,75kW ≤ Pn ≤ 1000kW and 2, 4, 6 or 8 poles shall correspond to at least the IE3 efficiency level (IE2 with a VSD is no longer applicable!).

Motors that will also be subject to the regulation in the future:

  1. Motors with mounted brakes
  2. All Explosion‐proof motors except Ex eb‐Motors (increased safety) and motors group I (mining motors)
  3. Motors completely integrated into a product but can be tested by mounting a temporary end shield and bearing

In addition these motors exempted from the requirements:

  1. Motors without fan (TENV)
  2. Spare motors for identical motors that are purchased until 1.7.2022 (valid until 30.06.2029)


Starting 1. July 2023:

Ex eb‐Motors (increased safety) and single‐phase motors with rated output of 0,12kW ≤ Pn ≤ 1000kW and 2, 4, 6 or 8 poles shall correspond to at least the IE2 efficiency level
Three‐phase AC motors with rated output of 75kW ≤ Pn ≤ 200kW and 2, 4 or 6 poles shall correspond to at least the IE4 efficiency level. Ex‐motors as well as brake motors can still delivered in IE3 efficiency level.

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