Escalators Saving Power
Going up? The 35 new "variable speed escalators" recently installed throughout New York City's subway system are equipped with infrared motion sensors that detect when a rider is present. When no one is riding an escalator, it will slow to a speed of 15 feet per minute; when a person triggers the sensor, the escalator will gradually accelerate to the normal speed of 100 feet per minute. The new system is designed to reduce energy costs and prolong the life of the escalators by reducing wear and tear. New York City Transit estimates that the variable speed escalators will save 17,122 kilowatt hours of power per day.
Source: The New York Times