Analysis of Regenerative Cycles and Energy Efficiency of Regenerative Elevators

This paper analyzes the regenerative elevator operation and energy savings of the faculty elevator. The study is based on measurements taken during a week of high travel demand. The results are compared to previous weekly measurements taken with the same elevator during lower travel demand. The effects of travel demand on regenerative potential and energy efficiency are analyzed. Energy savings are calculated using two different approaches and the impact of standby energy is highlighted. In addition, the energy efficiency, total annual energy consumption and annual energy savings are calculated according to the energy efficiency classification standards VDI 4707 and ISO 25745 and compared with the results of measurements performed at low and high travel demand. The regenerative cycles are studied in detail to determine the requirements for a future energy storage system. The results have shown that increased travel demand increases the energy efficiency of the elevator system. This effect is not obvious when considering only the results obtained according to the elevator energy efficiency classification standards. Moreover, the overall energy efficiency of the elevator system can be further improved by reducing the energy consumption in standby mode.