ABB building automation solutions integrate with Zumtobel Group lighting management systems

ABB and Zumtobel will also target innovation in the use of direct current (DC) technology in full-scale industrial applications to reduce energy use and lower CO₂ emissions

Global technology leader ABB has entered into a strategic partnership with Austria-based Zumtobel Group, a specialist in professional lighting solutions. This collaboration aims to combine the expertise of both companies to provide sustainable smart building solutions for the commercial, industrial, and public sectors.

The partnership will integrate Zumtobel Group’s advanced lighting management systems with ABB’s building automation solutions. It focuses on optimizing energy efficiency, enhancing user comfort, and improving heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems control. The two companies will accelerate the adoption of sensor-based lighting solutions, which will create more efficient and eco-friendly smart building environments.

One of the key focuses of the partnership is advancing innovations in DC (direct current) technology. DC technology offers significant benefits, including the efficient integration of renewable energy, reduced resource consumption, and increased grid stability. Both ABB and Zumtobel are actively involved in the Open Direct Current Alliance (ODCA), which promotes DC technology in industrial applications.

Lucy Han, Executive Vice President of Building and Home Automation Solutions at ABB, stated, “This partnership allows us to deliver more innovative and comprehensive solutions to our customers. Standardization is critical to ease of use, and we must drive simplicity in a rapidly growing sector.”

The two companies plan to co-develop integrated smart building solutions, focusing on Zumtobel’s LITECOM lighting system, ABB’s DC protection devices, and the ABB i-bus® KNX system. Together, they will explore further opportunities in prefabricated building solutions and emerging technology standards such as Matter and the Thread network protocol.