The load characteristics of an open water pump motor are analyzed. The starting strategy of the rare earth permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) is analyzed and discussed. PMSM has the inherent advantages of high efficiency, simple structure, economic operation and convenient maintenance. Applying PMSM to the auxiliary system of the power plant will result in high operating efficiency and good energy saving effect. The field test results of a PMSM applied to the open water system of a power plant further verify this conclusion.