Status of the U.S. Department of Energy's Motor Challenge Showcase Demonstration Projects

Abstract

This paper describes the status of 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 team 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 will provide appropriate information to DOE to allow for 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 will also sponsor special workshops to allow Showcase teams to exchange information and discuss lessons learned. At the conclusion of each project DOE will publish and distribute a comprehensive case history document. This paper presents the status of the projects, the results of the independent performance validation, and the lessons learned to date.