Elevator Energy Efficiency for Building Owners

ACEEE Study Finds Global Opportunities for Greater Elevator Efficiency

Chicago, IL (Jan. 27, 2014): More energy-efficient elevators significantly lower building operating costs, making them a critical component in the design and operation of modern structures. Elevator energy efficiency matters for modern buildings, not only from an environmental standpoint but also for enhancing the overall financial performance of a property. However, many building owners lack readily available information to make informed decisions. They need comprehensive guidance on choosing the right elevator system that suits their unique needs and understanding the full scope of its potential savings over time. A new study from a leading policy group highlights this issue, emphasizing the importance of integrating energy-efficient systems in building infrastructure to promote sustainability and reduce long-term expenses. By focusing on these advancements, property owners can contribute to a greener future while also benefiting economically.

Elevators and Escalators

Elevators and escalators account for 2 to 5 percent of energy use in most buildings. This figure shows their significant role in energy consumption. However, during peak times, this percentage can jump dramatically, reaching as high as 50 percent. This spike occurs in high-traffic areas during rush hours or busy periods, where demand for vertical transportation rises. At the 5 percent mark, U.S. elevators consume about five times more energy annually than all of Washington D.C. This statistic underscores the considerable impact these systems have on overall energy use in urban environments. These facts emphasize the need for efficient design and operation of elevators and escalators. They also highlight the potential for innovations that can significantly reduce their environmental footprint.

Off the shelf technology can reduce that energy consumption by 40 percent or more. This significantly impacts overall efficiency and sustainability in urban environments. With elevator energy efficiency improvements, sustainability can be dramatically increased. This includes innovations such as smart elevators that not only optimize their performance but also actively cut energy use between trips. That effectively reduces waste when an elevator is idle, according to the study. By utilizing advanced algorithms and sensors, these elevators can determine when to go into a low-power mode. As a result, energy is conserved without sacrificing service quality. Moreover, integrating such technologies into building designs creates an opportunity for developers and homeowners alike to contribute to a greener future. This fosters a collective responsibility towards environmental stewardship.

Some technologies have been found to reduce consumption by as much as 75 percent.

Enhanced visibility when it comes to elevator efficiency can help customers grasp the full value package of better controls, improved performance, reduced sound, and increased comfort,” said Harvey Sachs, ACEEE senior fellow, and the study’s lead author. Sameer Kwatra of ACEEE presented the study on Tuesday, January 27 at the 2015 American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Winter Conference in Chicago.

The study outlines a framework for industry leaders. It aims to establish common standards for measuring elevator efficiency. By targeting energy efficiency, these standards could create a rating system similar to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s ENERGY STAR® ratings. This system applies to heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems, as well as various home appliances. Clear standards might encourage energy utilities and government agencies to offer incentives, such as rebates, for highly efficient models. Additionally, building label programs like the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED® program could factor in elevator efficiency when certifying buildings. Currently, the LEED program treats elevators as part of unregulated “process loads” and does not provide credits for installing more efficient systems.

Elevator Energy Efficiency

“Owners view elevators as an extension of the building lobby. They use them to convey their personality and values,” said John Mandyck, chief sustainability officer, UTC Building & Industrial Systems. Consumers and tenants increasingly recognize the positive effects of green buildings on health and productivity. Clear standards for measuring elevator efficiency can lower operating costs. These standards can also highlight a building’s environmental attributes. This awareness shifts how owners and occupants perceive their spaces. It increases the focus on sustainable design and functionality. In today’s market, environmental responsibility matters. Incorporating efficient, eco-friendly elevators aligns with modern tenants’ values. It also shows a commitment to innovation and future sustainability.”

The report identifies energy-efficient elevator technologies that designers can include in building codes and factor into elevator rating and labeling systems. As almost all elevators remain idle far more than they move, they can reduce standby power by turning off lights and cab ventilation systems, which is relatively inexpensive. These simple adjustments can improve elevator energy efficiency and dramatically cut total energy use. Additionally, new technologies, such as coated steel belts replacing cable ropes in some elevators, allow for more efficient operation. Advanced dispatching software enhances the customer experience by reducing wait time and can cut energy use in half compared to traditional systems, according to the report.

Source: ACEEE, For more information, download the report at http://aceee.org/research-report/a1501.

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The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author, Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides and more. Seth's books range from: # Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant and Seth Leitman (2nd and 3rd editions) # Build Your Own Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle by Seth Leitman # Build Your Own Electric Motorcycle by Carl Vogel # Green Lighting by Seth Leitman, Brian Clark Howard and Bill Brinsky # Solar Power For Your Home by David Findley # Renewable Energies For Your Home by Russel Gehrke # Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audits by David Findley # Build Your Own Small Wind Power System by Brian Clark Howard and Kevin Shea # and more green living books to follow.

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