Lessons Learned from the U.S. Department of Energy's Motor Challenge Showcase Demonstration Projects

Abstract

This paper presents a summary of the practical lessons learned to date from the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Showcase Demonstration Projects. These projects are part of the DOE Motor Challenge Program, and are aimed at demonstrating increased electric motor system efficiency through the integration of a variety of technology and applications options. These include: energy efficient electric motors, adjustable speed drives, and motor-driven equipment (e.g., pumps, fans, and compressors) within industrial operations and processes. Each Showcase Project is made up of a team that consists of a host demonstration site and supporting partners (e.g. utilities, motor and process equipment suppliers, and contractors). Each team is expected to provide DOE with sufficient data to substantiate and document the energy and environmental performance of the project and the economic cost/benefit of the results. Additionally, teams provide appropriate information to DOE to allow DOE contractors to perform an independent performance validation report and to prepare a comprehensive case study document. DOE provides each Showcase Team access to technical experts who will assist on questions which may arise during the course of the project. DOE also sponsors workshops to allow Showcase teams to exchange information and discuss lessons learned. At the conclusion of each project DOE publishes and distributes a comprehensive case study document. Papers presented at this conference in 1996 and 1997 gave a description and status of the projects that were selected to be Motor Challenge Showcases. This paper will concentrate on the Showcases that have been completed and the important lessons learned.