700456Proof of market for an innovation in power electronics with energy-saving potential of 30–40% in many well-established industries (cement, mining, escalators etc.)ClosedGRD Proof of MarketInnovate UKPower Drive Efficiency Ltd. (www.powerdriveefficiency.com) is currently developing a novel motor controller. It is based on a patented technology that employs sophisticated algorithms to monitor motor performance and dynamically adjust the driving parameters, resulting in an increase of motor efficiency of up to 40%. The energy-saving controller is used with an existing motor, and can be installed as either an upgrade (replacing the old controller), or in parallel (allowing the operator to switch between the two). It can be used either in an altogether new installation (i.e. new factory design), or as a retrofit into existing factory application. Key benefits of using such a controller are in energy savings, prolonged life of the motor, and improved asset usage information for plant managers. Given that approximately half of all power generated in the UK is used to drive electric motors, the energy savings benefits and environmental impact of adoption of this technology in selected market segments is potentially significant.