Enhanced Nema Premium efficiency motors could save 5,800GW
11 July 2025 
The US National Electrical Manufacturers Association (Nema) has announced enhanced specifications for its Nema Premium class of high-efficiency electric motors. Based on data from the US Department of Energy (DoE), Nema calculates that the new Premium motors will save 5,800GW of electricity capacity over the next 10 years – equivalent to preventing almost 80 million tonnes of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere.
The new specification will help purchasers to identify higher efficiency motors that could save them save money and improve their system reliability. It covers three-phase motors from 1-500hp , operating at up to 600V.
The Nema Premium designation allows motor manufacturers to demonstrate that their motors deliver superior performance through reduced power consumption and enhanced long-term reliability. Manufacturers with products that meet or exceed the Nema Premium Efficiency and the new Premium Efficiency 4 (as defined in Nema MG 00001) specifications, can display labels that allow purchasers to identify the products.
“We’re excited Nema’s programme recognises recent innovations in motor technology,” says Ben Hinds, executive vice-president of climate and commercial solutions at ABB. “The updates to Nema’s programme will help drive adoption of advanced motors that reduce losses by up to 20%. These updates couldn’t come at a better time as cities and utilities struggle to keep up with increased power demand from AI and data centre installations.”
“The Nema Premium program was originally developed before DoE efficiency regulations to provide confidence to buyers that they would get the savings they paid for,” adds Dale Basso, product manager for low-voltage motors at WEG Electric Corp. “The programme has now been enhanced to provide that same level of confidence, as motor efficiencies once again run ahead of the DoE regulations. The Nema Premium programme ensures all certified manufacturers are tested and verified to the same standard.”
Electric motors consume more than half of all electricity used in the US.
“For over 20 years, the Nema Premium programme has driven innovation for energy efficiency in electrical motors,” says Nema’s president and CEO, Debra Phillips. “These new efficiency levels reflect Nema’s commitment to lead in a rapidly-evolving energy landscape. Nema’s Premium program is a critical tool in helping electrical manufacturers and their customers meet their sustainability, operational, and affordability goals.”
Nema represents more than 300 electrical equipment manufacturers that, together, contribute more than $250bn to the US economy, accounting for 1% of US GDP and employing nearly 460,000 people.
