Lift Energy Modelling for Green Building Design

Lifts are a relatively minor concern when considering green buildings, yet increasingly they are becoming subject to scrutiny with the drive to net zero. The energy consumption of lifts is a major part of their environmental impact. To reduce that impact, first, we need to improve our understanding and modelling of lift energy consumption. Many attempts have been made to define ways of calculating lift energy consumption. Some are so simplistic that their results are of questionable value. Others are so sophisticated that their widespread application is unlikely other than to specific products. This paper addresses why lift energy modelling is complex and discusses the factors which are most significant. Models based on calculation and traffic simulation are considered. The modelling method proposed addresses the need for considering passenger demand and allows for simple measurement and verification.