Energy Efficiency and International Regulation of Single-Phase Induction Motors: Evidence from Tests in the Brazilian Market

Single-phase induction motors account for a significant share of energy consumption in residential, commercial, and rural applications. However, unlike three-phase motors, they still lack specific regulation in Brazil. This paper aims to identify the main construction types of these motors and their performance characteristics, to map international regulations based on Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) and to assess the actual efficiency of motors available on the Brazilian market. The adopted methodology combined an extensive literature review with laboratory tests conducted in accordance with IEC Standard 60034-2-1, using a sample of 48 motors from various manufacturers. The results confirmed that split-phase, capacitor-start, permanent-split capacitor, and two-capacitor motors exhibit distinct performance characteristics that determine their suitability for different applications. The analysis of international regulation revealed that the European Union, the United States, and several other countries have already established normative criteria for single-phase motors, ranging from labelling requirements to the reach of MEPS. Finally, the analysis of the test results revealed that most single-phase motors available on the Brazilian market fail to meet the minimum efficiency levels established by the standards.