BREEAM Energy efficient transportation Systems
Contents |
[edit] Aim and benefits
BREEAM encourages the specification of energy efficient transportation systems within buildings and promotes the use of energy efficient features to save energy and operational costs.
This issue offers the following potential benefits to end users and clients:
- Reduced energy consumption / energy bills;
- Improved frequency of service due to lift traffic analysis; and
- Optimum lift quantity (reduced capital cost).
[edit] When to consider
This issue is not RIBA stage dependent.
[edit] Step by step guidance
Where lifts, escalators or moving walkways are specified, advise the design team that a building specific transportation analysis is required to determine the optimum number and size of equipment.
The energy consumption of at least two options (e.g. for lifts – hydraulic, traction or machine room-less) OR different system arrangements and control strategies should be considered, and the transportation system with the lowest energy consumption specified.
Lifts with speeds less than 0.15m/s fall outside the scope of ISO 25745 and can be excluded from the assessment of this Issue. This applies, for example, to lifts in single dwellings or those installed in other low-rise buildings, specifically for the use of persons with impaired mobility.
[edit] Questions to ask while seeking compliance
- Has a compliant transportation analysis been undertaken to inform the transportation specification?
- Has the energy consumption for the options been calculated.
- Has the use of regenerative drives been considered.
[edit] Lifts
Are the following three energy efficient features specified?
- A stand-by condition for off-peak periods
- Lift car lighting and display lighting providing average luminous efficiency of >70luminaire lumens per circuit Watt
- A drive controller capable of variable speed, variable-voltage and variable frequency (VWF).
[edit] Escalators or moving walkways
Has at least one of the following been specified for each escalator or moving walkway
- A load sensing device matching motor output to passenger demand through a variable speed drive OR
- A passenger-sensing device so that the equipment moves into standby mode when there is no passenger demand.
[edit] Tools and resources
[edit] Tips and best practice
BREEAM recognises that lift manufacturers / suppliers are often engaged to provide such specialist advice. Where the assessor is satisfied that the analysis has been carried out correctly, the analysis can be submitted as compliant evidence.
[edit] Typical evidence
[edit] Design Stage
The transport analysis. This can be in the form of a written statement justifying the lift selection.
Lift, escalator and moving walkway specifications.
[edit] Post construction
Photographic evidence.
[edit] Applicable Schemes
The guidelines collated in this ISD aim to support sustainable best practice in the topic described. This issue may apply in multiple BREEAM schemes covering different stages in the life of a building, different building types and different year versions. Some content may be generic but scheme nuances should also be taken into account. Refer to the comments below and related articles to this one to understand these nuances. See this document for further guidelines.
- BREEAM 2018
BRE Global does not endorse any of the content posted and use of the content will not guarantee the meeting of certification criteria.
--Tom Blois-Brooke 16:39, 01 Jul 2019 (BST)
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
National Planning Policy Framework
Understanding the 2026 changes.
ECA's public affairs priorities
Member consultation opens to shape priorities for 2027 to 2030.
Dutyholder responsibilities from 1 July 2026.
Where performance meets practice
The Building Envelope Stage at UKCW Birmingham.
CIAT publishes briefing on planning reforms.
Leaders in Learning for Practice Network
Call for conservation leaders in learning to register interest in new network.
The importance of early engagement
Construction lessons from the Trillium HealthWorks Experience Centre.
Mayors are to be given planning call in powers
Mayors across England will be able to make the most important planning decisions.
The Master Builder: William Butterfield and his times. Book review.
Why construction can't afford to ignore the skills gap.
Building Safety Regulator, 19 August
Gill Kernick appointed Independent Chair of Residents’ Panel.
Connecting knowledge, technology and conservation
Building competence for the future of built heritage.

















