In South Africa, the new Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for electric motors that came into effect in mid-2025 require all low voltage IE1 and IE2 electric motors, which are widely used across industries – in heavy-duty cranes, pumps, conveyor belts, air conditioning and more – to be replaced by the more energy-efficient IE3 motors.
Electric motors and the systems they drive reportedly account for around 40% of global electricity consumption and therefore offer significant scope for energy savings through increased energy efficiency.
As well as reducing electricity use, more efficient electric motors deliver significant cost savings, which is why many countries, including South Africa, have established Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) regulating the standards of electric motors.
In South Africa, the MEPS regulations require most three-phase, low-voltage electric motors, with power ratings from 0.75 kW to 375 kW, to be replaced, as they fail, over time, by IE3 (or higher) rated motors.
Although the regulations allow motor operators to phase out older motors, IE3 motors are significantly more efficient and have lower maintenance needs ( a further cost benefit). WEG advises businesses to start developing their replacement plans now.
“Yet, many are unsure of the best approach to exploit the MEPS transition,” says Fanie Steyn, LV & HV Executive of WEG Africa's Electric Motors division.
"The average mid-sized factory may run several dozen to a few hundred electric motors. Some are delaying replacements because they worry that this will draw attention and resources away from their main priorities. They would rather wait until a motor breaks and replace it then. But our view is that approach costs more: it leaves savings on the table and will lead to rushed preparations such as procurement training. Right now is the best time for businesses to start thinking about how MEPS affects them,” says Steyn.
Preparing for MEPS doesn't mean replacing every motor. There are several ways to build towards a smooth transition and maximise the return on investment, as noted below.
- Conduct motor inventories
- Update procurement policies and procedures
- Focus on Total Cost of Ownership
- Prioritise high-performance workloads
- Use energy audits
- Replace motors strategically
- Selectively redeploy motors
"My advice to electric motor operators is: Don't procrastinate! You either take advantage of the change, or it will force you to act. MEPS doesn't mean you must replace everything right now, so you can use this window to revisit your motor inventory and plan for maintenance and replacement. By taking a phased approach, you'll achieve compliance and proactively improve your overall motor management strategy," says Steyn.
Electric motor vendors like WEG Africa and their networks have the expertise and scope to discuss MEPS-related plans. Contact your trusted motor supplier and start a conversation about what will work best for your business.
For more information visit: WEG Africa
