The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards are being addressed on a global scale. The IEC standards are part of an effort to unify motor testing standards, efficiency requirements and product labeling requirements. IEC/EN 60034-30 defines energy efficiency (IE code) classes based on the test methods specified in IEC/EN 60034-2-1.
While IEC sets guidelines for motor testing and efficiency classes, it does not regulate efficiency, this is left to the respective regional legislation and European Directive.
After seeing successful mandatory minimum energy performance standard (MEPS) efforts, for example, in U.S. the European Commission has finally issued MEPS on electric motors in 2009 based on standard IEC/EN 60034-30. EU MEPS specify the efficiency levels to be attained for motors sold in the European market and outlines timetable for their implementation.