• Enhanced transparency through third-party verified data on CO₂ emission reduction potential
• The operation phase of large electric motors is responsible for 99% of their total lifetime emissions, highlighting the critical importance of energy efficiency and sustainable energy sources in achieving decarbonization goals.
• Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) are expected to become essential for future non-financial reporting requirements, impacting companies listed on US, UK, Swiss, and EU stock exchanges.

ABB has achieved an industry milestone by publishing the first-ever Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for large electric motors, compliant with ISO 14025:2006 Type III standards. The EPD covers ABB’s AMS 1120 synchronous motor series and sets a new benchmark for emissions transparency in the large electric motor sector. These motors are widely used in gas and air compression for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and other petrochemical industries, as well as in air separation processes in the chemical and metals industries.

The EPD is a standardized document offering detailed insights into a product’s environmental impact. It provides a third-party verified account of CO₂ emissions throughout a motor’s lifecycle—from design and material extraction to manufacturing, usage, and disposal. By providing verified environmental data, ABB empowers its customers to make informed decisions aligned with their sustainability objectives.

Key Data from the AMS Motor Series EPD

The AMS motor EPD reveals detailed CO₂ emissions across all lifecycle stages, with the use phase accounting for 99% of total emissions—equivalent to 2.4 megatons of CO₂. This underscores the importance of optimizing energy efficiency and selecting clean electricity sources during operation. Additionally, the upstream phase, which includes raw material extraction and intermediate component production, contributes 279 tons of CO₂, highlighting another critical focus area for reducing overall environmental impact.

David Bjerhag, Global Business Line Manager for High-Speed Synchronous Motors at ABB Large Motors and Generators, commented: “This EPD reflects ABB’s dedication to sustainability and transparency. By releasing the first EPD for large motors, we have taken a significant step towards a low-carbon future. By sharing verified environmental data for the AMS motor series and future products, we enable customers to assess the environmental footprint of electric motors and make sustainability-oriented choices.”

Preparing for Regulatory Changes

This initiative positions ABB and the broader industry to meet upcoming regulatory requirements, such as the anticipated EU eco-design directive and evolving non-financial reporting standards impacting companies across the US, UK, Swiss, and EU markets.

About ABB

ABB (ABBN: SIX Swiss Ex) is a global technology leader in electrification and automation, committed to enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. By combining engineering expertise with cutting-edge software solutions, ABB optimizes manufacturing, transportation, power generation, and operations. With a 140-year history of innovation, ABB’s approximately 105,000 employees worldwide are driving industrial transformation.

About ABB Motion

As a global leader in motors and drives, ABB Motion is dedicated to fostering productivity and sustainability. Through groundbreaking technologies, ABB contributes to energy-efficient, decarbonizing, and circular solutions for industries and communities. The company’s digitally enabled motors, drives, and services enhance performance, safety, and reliability across diverse applications. With over 22,000 employees in 100 countries and more than 140 years of expertise in electric powertrains, ABB Motion continuously innovates to shape a sustainable future.

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