Abstract: Relying on its characteristics of high efficiency and energy saving, the permanent magnet semi-direct drive transmission system is gradually becoming the direction of technological innovation for underground coal mine scraper conveyors. But due to its limited application, the true energy consumption performance is not well known. Based on this, through a step-by-step loading test, the energy consumption performance of a 1600 kW permanent magnet semi-direct drive transmission system was quantitatively evaluated for the first time. The study revealed that the system efficiency reaches 95% at a 50% load rate, and approximately 97.5% between 75% to 100% load rates. Compared to traditional asynchronous motor drive systems, the efficiency is increased by 27.6%, and the energy consumption is reduced by 21.6% under the same operating conditions. This innovative transmission system also has a compact structure and reliable stability. It is well-suited for the operating conditions of scraper conveyors, with a promising application outlook. However, for high-power transmission systems, some technical challenges still need to be addressed, such as system layout, design of chain-tensioning devices, and system integration.