Published by Argon Elevator Consulting
www.argonconsulting.com
As cities move aggressively toward carbon reduction goals, the City and County of Denver is leading the charge with the Energize Denver Building Performance Policy. While the policy targets overall building energy efficiency, its implications extend into every system—including elevators and escalators.
At Argon Elevator Consulting, we provide strategic guidance on elevator modernization and installation, with a special focus on how vertical transportation systems influence a building’s energy performance. A key part of our services includes conducting elevator energy audits to help building owners measure and improve elevator efficiency in alignment with Energize Denver standards.
What Is the Energize Denver Building Performance Policy?
This policy mandates energy use intensity (EUI) targets for commercial and multifamily buildings over 25,000 square feet. Compliance is mandatory, and buildings that don’t meet targets could face steep fines.
🟢 For official details, visit the City of Denver’s website:
Energize Denver Building Performance Policy
Elevators: A Hidden Factor in Building Energy Use
Although elevators and escalators are not regulated independently under the policy, they consume a meaningful share of total building electricity—particularly older hydraulic and relay-controlled systems. This energy use directly contributes to the building’s EUI score, which is the basis for compliance.
🚀 Elevator Modernization Tied to Energy Goals:
- Install VFD motors to reduce electricity during starts and stops
- Add smart idle modes that shut off fans, lights, and controllers when not in use
- Upgrade to LED cab lighting with motion sensors
- Implement efficient hydraulic fluids and smart controllers where applicable
Modernizing your elevator system with energy efficiency in mind can play a crucial role in meeting building performance targets—and Argon can help document that impact.
Argon’s Elevator Energy Audit Services
One of the most valuable services we offer is a Before & After Elevator Energy Audit:
🔍 What We Deliver:
- Baseline assessment of your current elevator energy use
- Identification of inefficient components and energy-saving opportunities
- Modeling of expected energy reductions from modernization
- Post-upgrade verification to document energy savings
- Comprehensive reporting to support Energize Denver compliance and incentive applications
These audits give property owners a clear understanding of how elevators impact their energy performance—and help prove improvements for policy or financing purposes.
Financing and Incentives for Elevator Energy Efficiency
Complying with the Energize Denver Policy can unlock substantial financial support for energy-saving elevator upgrades:
💰 Incentive and Financing Opportunities:
- Xcel Energy Rebates: For VFDs, controls, and lighting retrofits
- Denver Climate Action Rebates: Potential funding when elevators are part of broader energy upgrades
- Colorado C-PACE Financing: Long-term, fixed-rate loans paid via property tax for qualified energy-saving projects
- Alternative Compliance Pathways (ACPs): Flexibility for buildings making capital improvements like elevator modernization
We help clients navigate the incentive landscape and determine which financing mechanisms align with their elevator plans.
Why Partner with Argon Elevator Consulting?
We specialize in elevator modernization strategies that support energy efficiency, compliance, and long-term ROI. Our approach is tailored to help you meet performance standards without sacrificing service quality or reliability.
Our Core Services:
- ✅ Elevator energy audits (before and after modernization)
- ✅ Compliance-focused modernization planning
- ✅ Equipment specification and contractor coordination
- ✅ Financing and rebate consulting
- ✅ Integration with sustainability, engineering, and facilities teams
Ready to Future-Proof Your Elevators?
Modernizing your elevator systems isn’t just about speed and comfort—it’s now about compliance and carbon reduction. With the right upgrades and expert guidance, you can improve performance, reduce costs, and help your building meet the Energize Denver Building Performance Policy head-on.
👉 Schedule your elevator energy audit today with Argon Elevator Consulting
🌐 www.argonconsulting.com
