Fan Energy Index (FEI) developed by ACMA and California Energy Commission (CEC)
The AMCA (Air Movement and Control Association) has recently announced the approval of a new regulation called Fan Energy Index (FEI) by the California Energy Commission (CEC) under Title 20, targeting the energy efficiency of commercial and industrial fans and blowers. This regulation, which came into effect on November 1, 2023, sets forth stringent efficiency standards and compliance requirements for equipment manufacturers. It revolves around a key metric: the fan energy index, as calculated using ANSI/AMCA Standard 214-21. For an in-depth look at the regulation, click here.
The regulation includes a test procedure, a minimum-efficiency requirement, and compliance-filing and product-marking provisions. The regulatory metric is the fan energy index as calculated using ANSI/AMCA Standard 214-21, Test Procedure for Calculating Fan Energy Index (FEI) for Commercial and Industrial Fans and Blowers. California estimates the regulation will save Californians 1.7 terawatt-hours, 17 million megawatt-hours per year on increased fan, fan motors, and VFD efficiency.
Key Takeaways
Here are the Key Takeaways from the AMCA's announcement:
Approval of New Regulation: The CEC approved the regulation on November 16, 2022. This regulation is part of a long-standing effort to improve efficiency in the fan industry.
Compliance Deadline: Manufacturers have until November 1, 2023, to comply with the new regulation.
AMCA's Role: The Air Movement and Control Association (AMCA) International, Inc. played a significant role in shaping the regulation. AMCA's Senior Director, Michael Ivanovich, highlighted the regulation as fair, achievable, enforceable, and beneficial for energy and carbon savings.
Regulation Details: It includes a test procedure, a minimum-efficiency requirement, and compliance-filing and product-marking provisions. The regulatory metric is the fan energy index (FEI), calculated using the ANSI/AMCA Standard 214-21.
Scope and Exceptions: The regulation applies to commercial and industrial fans and blowers with certain power ratings, with specific exceptions like air-curtain units and safety fans.
Geographic Applicability: All fans and blowers sold in California must meet these requirements, regardless of the manufacturing location.
AMCA's Advocacy Role: AMCA's North America Region Air Movement Advocacy Committee has been involved in the development of this regulation since 2017, continuing efforts started by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in 2011.
AMCA's Ongoing Efforts: AMCA is working with the CEC and California investor-owned utilities to develop compliance and education resources. They are also evolving service offerings to assist members in filing compliance data.
Energy Savings: The regulation is estimated to save Californians significant energy - around 1.7 terawatt-hours or equivalent annually.
While this standard gives detailed, complex formulas on how to calculate minimal fan efficiency and fan motors efficiency, it also contains practical and easy to understand tables. In the example below Per new Fan Energy Index 350 HP, 1,700 RPM Motor should be min. 96.2%:
Similar tables are available for the fan minimal efficiency.
Ecogate Fully Supports AMCA Standards
The introduction of the CEC's new energy efficiency standards resonates deeply with Ecogate's ongoing mission to innovate within the industrial sector. Our systems are inherently designed to prioritize energy efficiency, which positions us favorably in relation to these new requirements. More than just meeting regulatory demands, our commitment lies in actively contributing to the reduction of energy consumption and minimizing environmental impact. This commitment is reflected in the core functionality of our products, which are engineered to optimize energy use without compromising performance. Ecogate's proactive approach in adapting to these standards underscores our dedication to sustainable industrial energy management, offering tangible benefits to our customers and the environment alike.
We're Here to Help
The AMCA's announcement marks a significant step towards a more sustainable future in the industrial fan and blower sector. At Ecogate, we are ready to embrace these changes and continue providing solutions that meet these rigorous standards. For more information about how the Ecogate System aligns with this standard or any other standards we support, please contact us. We are here to help you navigate these new regulations and optimize your energy efficiency.
