Eco-sheet: 15 kW induction motor – impact of efficiency increase varies with electricity mix

The objective of this case study is to analyse the effects of improving the efficiency of a 15kW induction motor in various countries with different energy mixes. The results show that an improvement of efficiency has higher environmental benefits in countries with an electricity generation based on fossil fuels rather than renewable energy sources or nuclear. Electricity mixes from EU25, France, Germany, Poland and Austria were used.

The same efficiency increase (Eff2 to Eff1 class) in a motor leads to a saving of 31 tonnes of CO₂ in Poland, but 3 tonnes in France. This contrasts with the reduction of primary energy consumption: 330 GJ in Poland and 415 GJ in France.

A recent post explains the problem: we can prove 'whatever' we want with a study. It is now opened once again:

Does it make more sense to invest in energy savings in Poland than in France?

Should we look at the reduced energy consumption or CO2 emissions?

Should we forget about energy efficiency, since the biggest impact seems to be made with changing the electricity mix?

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