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NC-v4 EAc2:Optimize energy performance

Modelling energy savings for interior equipment especially lifts/elevators

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Anurag Ghosh
Assistant Sustainability Manager
L&T Construction
LEEDuser Basic Member
2 thumbs up

Hi everyone,

I’m working on an energy model based on ASHRAE 90.1-2010 Appendix G and have a query regarding elevators and lifts. Since ASHRAE 90.1 treats elevators as non-regulated loads, I understand that their energy consumption isn't directly compared in the baseline vs. proposed models.

However, in my project, we are implementing energy-efficient elevators (e.g., with regenerative drives and efficient motors), and I’d like to quantify their energy savings as part of the model or at least account for them in some form.

My specific questions are:

  1. Can elevator energy savings be reflected in the proposed design model under ASHRAE 90.1, even if it's a non-regulated load?

  2. Is it acceptable to include elevator energy as a process load with schedules and efficiencies in both baseline and proposed models, with savings shown as part of total energy cost?

  3. Are there any standard methodologies or references (within ASHRAE 90.1 or otherwise) for estimating elevator energy use and potential savings?

Any guidance, examples, or clarification from your experience would be really helpful!

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Marcus Sheffer
LEED Fellow
7group / Energy Opportunities
LEEDuser Expert
4454 thumbs up

Sun, 04/06/2025 - 19:13

1. Yes. You must perform an exceptional calculation. The key is to establish a reasonable baseline for comparison based on standard practice for a typical elevator in a similar height building in your area. If there are utility incentives in your area they may define the baseline for you.  2. Yes. Again follow the exceptional calculation method.  3. Elevator manufacturers have calculators. 

Mon, 04/07/2025 - 09:47

Hi Sir, Let's consider an example where 40% regeneration of the total energy consumption for lift/elevator operation is given. Should this be considered as energy saving in the actual design compared to the base design, or will the 40% be offset equally in both the actual and base designs?"
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Marcus Sheffer
LEED Fellow
7group / Energy Opportunities
LEEDuser Expert
4454 thumbs up

Mon, 05/12/2025 - 21:25

You follow the exceptional calculation method as above. Model the proposed elevator systems as designed. You then model the baseline elevator system by providing a justification for why the baseline elevator system represents standard practice in your area for this type of building. The difference would be the savings you get to claim assuming that you have modeled the proposed design correctly and you have provided sufficient justification for the baseline. Since this system does not really have an impact on the building's heating/cooling loads you do not have to first model the baseline and proposed identically as you often do with other process loads.

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