Reduction and optimization refers to measures to reduce electricity consumption and increase the efficiency of devices, processes and systems in order to reduce energy costs. Reducing and optimizing electricity consumption has many advantages. First of all, energy costs can be reduced due to the low power consumption. In addition, the low power consumption also leads to better efficiency, so that the same performance can be achieved with less energy. There is also a positive effect on the environment, as fewer greenhouse gas emissions are released. Frequency inverters play an important role in optimizing power consumption and reducing emissions. They are electronic devices that can regulate the speed of electric motors in order to significantly reduce energy consumption in industrial plants. One way of evaluating the energy efficiency of motors is to use the so-called IE classes. The IE stands for “international efficiency”. These classes indicate how efficient a motor is and range from IE1 (lowest efficiency) to IE2 (highest efficiency). In addition, there are also the so-called system efficiency classes (IES classes). These classes not only evaluate the efficiency of individual components such as motors, but also the efficiency of the entire system, including the control and regulation. By using IES classes, industrial plants achieve optimum energy efficiency and can thus further reduce energy consumption and emissions. Overall, optimizing electricity consumption in industrial plants offers many benefits, including lowering energy costs, increasing efficiency and reducing emissions. Danfoss frequency inverters already meet the strictest requirements of the energy efficiency standard IES 61800-9 and are classified as IE2
Three steps to reducing and optimizing electricity consumption:
- Pay attention to the energy label when buying electronics. In the EU, energy efficiency classes are prescribed for motors, which are referred to as IE classes. A motor with a higher IE class consumes less electricity and therefore saves energy costs.
- Carry out regular maintenance
- Regular maintenance of machines and systems is important to ensure optimum performance and to detect possible defects at an early stage. Maintenance can also help to reduce electricity consumption. One example of this is checking the motor and drive systems for optimum adjustment and proper functioning.
- Use of energy-efficient appliances
- The use of energy-efficient appliances can significantly reduce electricity consumption. In the EU, system efficiency classes (IES classes) are used to assess the energy efficiency of pumps, fans and compressors. The IES classes range from IES1 (low efficiency) to IES3 (very high efficiency). A higher IES class means that the appliance consumes less energy. Companies should therefore give preference to energy-efficient appliances in order to reduce power consumption and energy costs.
Overall, these steps can help to reduce electricity consumption and energy costs and thus also protect the environment.
