Electric motor systems in buildings, industry and transport consume some 40% of total electricity demand. They drive pumps, fans, compressors and in various traction elements. Efficiency can be improved with proper sizing, using adjustable speed drives and high efficiency motors.

Lifts can account for a significant proportion of the consumption of electricity by building systems. A S.A.F.E. research project (final report 11/2005) found out that stand-by mode can amount to more than 75% of total energy consumption. But layout and planning (size, speed etc.) are also important for efficient solutions

1'300 million people in China have a growing appetite for energy. Some 2'200 TWh/a electricity (mostly from coal) have been produced in 2005. This consumption is rising at 15% annually. Energy efficiency in electric motor systems, appliances, lighting and building technology is a crucial topic to reduce this growth rate. China has a strong industry to produce excellent A++ refrigerators,  compact fluorescent lamps and high efficiency Premium motors.
S.A.F.E. has launched a joint European-American multi-disciplinary project to contribute to the efficiency campaign in China's 11th 5-year plan (2006-2010). Actual projects include the Motor System Model, Topten China and CDM projects for energy efficiency.

Conrad U. Brunner, Zurich/Switzerland
Dr. Anne Arquit Niederberger, Hoboken NJ/USA

'Energybox' is an informative program for consumers on efficient use of electricity in households and private offices. It is made up of 5 modules: printed information, an internet platform, a call centre, a research tool as well as media work.

On December 1st 2005 S.A.F.E. was holding the Light Summit 2005 for the fourth consecutive year in Zurich. 60 Experts from 10 countries were sharing their insights into the technological developments in energy-efficient lighting for office and residential applications and discussed lowering of market barriers. All the conference contributions are now available.

The design competition ?Golden Plug? promotes the development of beautifully designed luminaries. Awarding the best products, exhibitions, publications and promotions speeds up the introduction of new ideas for energy efficiency to the market.

The test center S.A.L.T. at the University of Applied Sciences HTW Chur carries out measurements, tests and consulting activities for institutional buyers, scientists, labelling organisations and the media. In particular, for office equipment, consumer electronics, household appliances and lighting measurements of energy efficiency and electromagnetic compatibility are performed.