Why doesnt the escalators stop when there are no people travelling on them, and start when people approach?

In Sweden, and most nordic countries there is a sensor on the beginning platform of an escalator that activates the escalator, so when there are no users using it, it simply stops, to save energy. Why doesn't this occur here in the UK as well, if the government is soo keen on saving energy and portraying a greener environment. These are the small easy things that can be done, and all adding up, will have a big impact on the environment. Every little counts as they say at T.

Answers:
Generally speaking, with the size motor that runs an escalator, it is more cost efficient to leave them running. The same thing holds true for some kinds of lighting. To start the motor it takes a surge of energy since it presents almost a short condition to the line. Once it is up to speed and running, the motor also acts as a generator and puts current back into the line, only using a much smaller amount to keep turning.

Typical motor in your washer for example will run on 1 to 1.5 amp, but may draw 11 amps to start. Now apply that on a much larger scale.
It doesn't save power. It takes more power to restart and electric motor than to keep it running during times of inconsistent use. Sensors, relays and other switches require more maintenance.
Sorry, you're barking up the wrong tree. The government doesn't own the escalators, private businesses do and changing them out is expensive and would have to be proven cost effective 1st.
I dunno, maybe you could invent one that does and become incredibly rich
I dunno,But if it were upto me,they wouln't run at all.I get freaked out everytime I get near one..I've been scared of em since I was little.Don't really know why tho.I get panic attacks just at the thought of having to get on one.I use stairs or elevators.
two things first is why is this question here?
second is because the more complex they are the more things that can go wrong
also wat the others said it takes a lot of electricity to start a big motor to get it going
Couldn't find anything referring to design differences. Perhaps it involves a constantly-running motor and clutch system which the sensors engage. This would allow the motor to use less energy while not under load and subject the moving parts of the escalator to recieve less wear, but allow for engagement when needed with minimal amperage increase.?? whatcha think, engineers??
they do in spain!
Move to Sweden if you you don't like the way things work in the USA

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