Variable frequency drives (VFDs, also referred to as variable speed drives) can reduce output by controlling the motor rather than having the motor work at a constant, almost full load and adjusting the system to obtain a desired result. Variable speed drives are especially effective at reducing power and energy consumption to centrifugal equipment such as pumps and fans. This is because a reduction in flow is directly proportional to a reduction in speed, while the reduction in power is proportional to the cube of the change in speed.
Incentive:
$30 Per Horsepower
VFD Energy Saving Chart*
| LOAD | SAVINGS |
|---|---|
| 100% | 0% |
| 90% | 27.1% |
| 80% | 48.8% |
| 70% | 65.7% |
| 60% | 78.4% |
- Available to industrial and large commercial customers
- Limited to VFDs from 1 to 200 horsepower on centrifugal pumps and fans
- Not available for replacement VFDs, non-centrifugal loads, irrigation pumps or new construction HVAC pumps and fans
- Minimum 2,000 hours annual usage
Learn More:
Guidelines:
- Available to industrial and large commercial customers of Nebraska Public Power District and its wholesale utilities’ customers.
- Application must be completed to receive an incentive.
- Application must be accompanied by proof of purchase that itemizes the new equipment indicating the type, make, model, size, and purchase date.
- Program is limited to drives from 1 to 200 horsepower.
- The equipment must operate at a minimum of 2000 hours annually.
- Incentives will not be offered to replace existing VFD’s or for single phase service. The system controlled must have significant load diversity that will result in savings through motor speed variation. VFD speed must be automatically controlled. VFD must control centrifugal fans or pumps. New construction HVAC pumps and fans are ineligible. It is highly recommended to install protective equipment to maintain VFD reliability.
- Incentives exceeding $5,000 require approval by the electric utility before purchase or installation.
- Program is subject to the Terms and Conditions as outlined on the application and to the General Guidelines.
Revised: January 2022
