The updated IEC 60034-1:2025 standard has introduced IE5 as a defined motor efficiency classification, providing a clearer benchmark for specifying high-efficiency motors. For industrial sites where pumps, fans, compressors, and conveyors often run continuously, the change could impact lifecycle energy costs
Weg, a global manufacturer of motors and drives, is providing support to customers as they transition, with an application-led portfolio featuring motors capable of meeting or exceeding IE5 efficiency levels, along with engineering support to assess compatibility, payback, and total cost of ownership (TCO).
The IEC’s revised IEC 60034-30-1 standard sets out a framework for motor efficiency classification across international markets, simplifying comparison between different technologies and applications. Defining minimum efficiency levels across a wide range of motor types establishes a consistent benchmark for manufacturers, engineers, and end users.
Marcio Yoshikazu Ematsu, European marketing manager at Weg, said, “As industrial energy demands continue to grow, the updated IE5 standard provides clearer direction for future motor development. By combining improved efficiency benchmarks with practical guidance on implementation, the IEC 60034-30-1 standard supports industry in reducing energy consumption while maintaining performance, reliability and operational flexibility.”
The new standard provides updated efficiency tables, clearer guidance on requirements, and practical insight into higher-efficiency motor technologies. It also enables more consistent global classification, making it easier to compare products, meet regional performance requirements, and simplify specification, procurement and system design across multiple markets.
Ematsu added, “Weg already manufactures and supplies motors that can exceed IE5. Our portfolio spans the full range of IE efficiency classes. This is supported by technical expertise that helps customers evaluate potential energy savings, assess compatibility with existing installations and identify the most cost-effective upgrade path.”
Weg’s W22 induction motor range is already aligned with these higher efficiency levels. The W22 motor range has also recently been extended with the W22 Prime, which delivers IE4 and IE5 efficiency while maintaining direct-on-line (DOL) operation and compatibility with standard frame sizes, supporting straightforward upgrades without additional system complexity.
Additionally, the W23 Sync+ and W23 Sync+ Ultra ranges utilise synchronous reluctance permanent magnet technology to achieve higher efficiency and power density, minimising losses in continuous-duty applications.
For industry, IE5’s impact is closely linked to long-term performance. Motors in applications such as pumps, fans, compressors, and conveyors can run continuously for years, meaning even small efficiency gains can reduce energy use and TCO.
Compared with IE3 motors, IE4 technologies can reduce energy losses by 15-20%, while IE5 technologies can reduce losses by 30-40%, depending on the application.
The standard also highlights that the highest efficiency class is not always the most appropriate solution for every application. Factors such as duty cycle, starting requirements, installation constraints, and system integration require careful consideration to ensure optimal performance and cost-effectiveness.
Ematsu said, “Understanding how efficiency improvements translate into real operational savings is critical, particularly in applications where motors run continuously, and energy consumption represents a significant proportion of lifecycle cost. We support customers in aligning with IEC 60034-30-1 and related standards through a combination of compliant motor technologies and application-led engineering.”
The new IE5 classification also creates a clearer basis for technical discussions between manufacturers, specifiers and end users. Because efficiency can now be assessed more consistently across power ratings, frequencies and motor technologies, customers can compare upgrade options more accurately and select motors based on the realities of their application.
