ABB and E.ON partner to accelerate industrial energy-efficiency upgrades

A combined technical-and-financing model for industrial energy systems
ABB and E.ON Energy Infrastructure Solutions have launched a strategic collaboration designed to make energy-efficiency upgrades more accessible for industrial and commercial operators. Instead of offering only technology or only financing, the partnership integrates both elements into a single, outcome-based service model that removes upfront expenditure — one of the primary obstacles to modernizing energy-intensive equipment.

The approach supports companies facing rising energy costs, decarbonization pressures, and aging motor-driven systems. It also aligns with recent findings from the International Energy Agency’s World Energy Outlook 2025, which identifies efficiency improvements as a core driver for competitiveness and for reducing global energy demand.

Technical optimization for motor-driven systems
ABB contributes detailed system-level analysis for fleets of electric motors powering pumps, fans, compressors and other industrial loads. These systems typically account for a large share of site electricity consumption, making them a key target for energy savings. ABB’s methodology evaluates where variable-speed drives, equipment redesigns or control adjustments can reduce consumption while maintaining process stability.

This technical expertise is paired with E.ON’s strengths in structuring, financing and operating complex energy infrastructure. By combining the two, projects can be delivered with measurable performance outcomes and shared accountability across design, installation and long-term operation.



Addressing the financing gap highlighted by international studies
The IEA’s outlook notes that efficiency measures — combined with electrification and sustainable fuels — could reduce global energy-related CO₂ emissions by nearly 55% by 2035. However, many companies struggle to fund system upgrades despite their long-term economic benefits.

The ABB–E.ON model provides a route around this challenge by offering guaranteed savings and service agreements instead of capital expenditure. This is particularly relevant for industries where margins are tight and equipment lifecycles are long, including food and beverage processing, chemicals, metals, glass production, pulp and paper, and data-center operations.

Target sectors and long-term operational focus
The partnership will initially concentrate on European industries with high thermal and electrical loads. Customers receive energy appraisals, system design, implementation services and long-term operational management under a unified framework. By tying financial performance to energy outcomes, the model aims to improve resilience against volatile energy markets while reducing both operating costs and emissions.

The collaboration positions energy efficiency not only as a sustainability measure but also as a strategic operational tool. For operators with distributed assets or aging motor fleets, the structure offers a standardized upgrade pathway with reduced implementation risk.

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