Optimization of energy consumption in vertical mobility systems of high-rise office buildings: A case study from a developing economy

Abstract

Elevator systems serve as the primary mode of transportation in tall buildings which consumes approximately 5–15% of a building's total energy demand. This research explores the potential for energy savings in elevator systems while maintaining passenger comfort through the implementation of green approaches. The research concentrates on a contemporary high-rise office building situated in the central business district of a developing economy. It employs a case study methodology involving traffic simulation to determine optimal elevator specifications for industry-standard service levels. By conducting the simulation, the researchers identified the optimal number of elevators, elevator capacity, speed, and the most suitable elevator management system. Following that, a range of green measures were implemented, including the incorporation of a regenerative system, to effectively reduce the electrical energy consumption of the elevator system. Subsequently, a passenger traffic simulation model was integrated with an energy calculation model to jointly simulate and calculate the elevator system's overall energy consumption and regeneration. The elevator energy requirements were optimized, while maintaining user-friendliness and requirements related to guidelines given in the standards. The results showed that 36% of the energy consumption was reduced by incorporating an energy regenerative option into the elevator system in addition to selecting efficient mechanical components and implementing an efficient elevator traffic management system. This research contributes to the limited body of literature on energy optimization in elevators and emphasizes the importance of balancing energy efficiency with service quality. These findings provide guidance for establishing benchmarks in reducing energy consumption, in relation to elevator systems.