Industrial products strategy

Improving the energy efficiency of industrial and commercial motor-driven systems and steam boilers helps companies save on running costs, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

Motor-driven systems and steam boilers are widely used in manufacturing, mining and agriculture. They used approximately 40% of the total electricity supply in 2011 and 71% of the total gas supply in New Zealand. Demand is expected to grow with more mining, agriculture, manufacturing, construction, and processing of resources into ‘added value' products.

Poorly maintained systems, leaks and low efficiency components mean that 20% of electricity and 10% of gas are lost without contributing to the desired end product.

The Industrial Equipment Energy Efficiency Strategy explores the potential of minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) to improve the energy efficiency of components such as pumps and fans. MEPS are developed to set limits on the amount of energy that may be consumed by equipment performing specified tasks. Electric motors are already regulated by MEPS, as are many domestic appliances such as heat pumps and refrigerators.

Best practice guides on equipment selection, installation and maintenance are also explored in the strategy. Industry's comments on the draft strategy discussion document helped to shape this final version.

Download the draft Industrial Products Strategy discussion paper (2011) [Joint Australian/New Zealand energy rating website]

Exploring the efficiency of fans

The market for fans and fan efficiency was explored through product profiles for non-domestic fans and for small fans. These documents were consulted upon in 2011 and explored the energy performance of installed fan stock, sales trends, the potential for better performing models to dominate sales, and options for improving the energy efficiency of new products.

View the product profiles for non-domestic fans and small fan units.