The motor is the main source of power consumption in an elevator. Other parts—such as the control circuit, door operator, cabin fan, and cabin lighting—also draw electricity, but their combined usage is minimal compared with the motor.
An elevator consumes the most energy when it travels upward at full load or downward when empty. In contrast, during full-load descent or empty ascent, the traction machine operates under a light load, resulting in very low energy consumption.
For simplicity, elevator energy use is often calculated based on the motor’s full-load power, regardless of whether the elevator is moving up or down. This approach offsets the relatively small consumption from the control system, door operator, fan, and lighting. As a result, the motor’s power usage alone can be used to estimate the elevator’s average daily electricity consumption.
Elevator Energy Formula
Daily Energy Consumption = (P_motor × K_load × T_run) + (P_standby × T_standby)
Where:
- P_motor: the motor’s rated power (in kW)
- K_load: the load factor — this is an important, experience-based number, usually between 30% and 60%
- T_run: the total time the elevator is actually running
- P_standby: the standby power (in kW)
- T_standby: the number of hours the elevator stays in standby mode, which is 24 – T_run
Let’s use a typical 1000 kg elevator as an example:
Suppose it has a 22 kW motor, runs about 4 hours per day, and we use a 55% load factor.
For standby consumption, we take 3% of the motor power.
Then the daily energy consumption is:
22 × 0.55 × 4 + 0.03 × 22 × 20 = 61.6 kWh
So this elevator uses about 61.6 kWh of electricity per day.
How to Optimize Elevator Energy Consumption
From the calculation above, it’s clear that a single elevator can consume a significant amount of electricity each year—and the usage becomes even higher in large commercial buildings with multiple units.
So, what can we do to reduce an elevator’s energy consumption?
1. Choose efficient elevators — such as permanent magnet gearless traction machines, VVVF drives, and elevators equipped with regenerative braking.
2. Use intelligent group control systems to improve dispatching efficiency and reduce unnecessary trips.
3. Perform regular maintenance to ensure the elevator operates in its best condition.
4. Upgrade older elevators with energy-efficient drive systems and modern LED lighting to improve overall performance and reduce power use.
5. Using solar-powered elevators — operating elevator equipment with solar energy and recycled electricity.
Contact us to discover the ideal energy-saving solution for your elevators and help reduce your operating expenses to the fullest.