www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I April 2025 15
Business
CALL TO ACTION AS THE TRANSITION TO IE3 MOTORS FACES LOOMING DEADLINE
By Eamonn Ryan
Starting June 1 , 2024 , South Africa will enforce critical changes to motor regulations that businesses must heed . The new mandate requires all new low-voltage motors to meet the IE3 efficiency standard .
On June 3 , 2024 , a compulsory specification was Gazetted outlining efficiency requirements for electric motors ( VC9113 ), which will take effect 12 months after the notice publication . These regulations impact motor importers and manufacturers . After June 1 , 2025 , motors with a KW rating larger than . 75KW will need to be IE3 motors for low-voltage applications in South Africa , though businesses have until 31 May 2026 to sell off existing stock of IE1 and IE2 motors .
This shift aims to address South Africa ' s energy consumption , which is a significant contributor to global energy use , with electric motors accounting for 40 % of the world ’ s electrical energy consumption .
The global push for higher energy efficiency is not just an environmental initiative ; it ’ s a business necessity . IE3 motors , which are 3 % more efficient than their IE1 counterparts , offer long-term cost savings by reducing energy consumption and enhancing reliability , all while aligning with global standards . South Africa is leading the charge in Africa with this regulation , marking a step toward reducing the country ' s energy footprint .
The transition to IE3 motors will affect approximately 99 % of South Africa ’ s low-voltage motors , which are used in industries like mining , manufacturing , HVAC & R and plumbing . However , many engineers and businesses remain unaware of the scope of the change . With the sale of IE1 motors ending by June 2025 , companies that don ’ t prepare for this transition risk operational delays . The window to purchase or use IE1 stock is closing , and now is the time to plan ahead .
From June 1 , 2024 , importers were no longer able to bring IE1 or IE2 motors into the country for low-voltage applications . The grace period for selling IE1 and IE2 stock ends in June 2025 , after which companies will require special permits to import remaining stock — if they can secure it at all . With rising electricity costs , energy-efficient motors have become even more vital . While IE3 motors come with a higher upfront cost , they offer substantial savings by drastically reducing energy consumption . only ensure compliance but also provide long-term savings . For motors running 24 / 7 , the additional cost of an IE3 motor can be recouped in as little as seven months . However , most motors typically operate no more than eight hours a day .
If your business is still specifying IE1 motors , now is the time to make the switch to IE3 . If this change is not made , there will be no stock available after the new regulations take effect . Engineers and decision-makers must update tender specifications and inventory plans immediately .
As global trends push for higher efficiency standards , IE3 is just the beginning . IE4 and IE5 motors , which offer even higher efficiency ratings , are already being introduced in some regions . South Africa is expected to eventually adopt these standards . The IE3 regulation presents an opportunity for South Africa to lead in energy efficiency , but businesses need to act quickly to stay ahead .
The message is clear : by June 1 , 2025 , IE1 motors will no longer be available for low-voltage applications . Companies that continue to specify these outdated motors will face significant disruptions . Now is the time to transition to IE3 motors and secure the longterm financial and environmental benefits they offer .
For engineers , procurement teams and businesses , this upcoming regulation marks a turning point . Let this be a wake-up call to ensure you ’ re compliant and ready to embrace the future of energy-efficient motors .
REFERENCES : 1 . Government Gazette 2 . WEG presentation at SAIRAC Cape Town Centre in January and at ElectraMining 2024 . RACA
PLAN NOW TO AVOID THE RUSH Businesses should revise procurement processes and technical specifications to comply with the new IE3 standards . It ’ s not just about avoiding penalties ; it ’ s about future-proofing operations and reducing energy costs . The transition to IE3 motors will not
www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I April 2025 15