Johnson Controls has acquired Nantum AI, a New York-based company specializing in AI algorithms for energy savings, system controls and operational efficiency. The acquisition adds proprietary AI-driven algorithms to the Johnson Controls OpenBlue digital ecosystem to further optimize HVAC performance and reduce energy consumption.
Nantum AI will expand OpenBlue capabilities to optimize real-time airflow in buildings based on occupancy. Together with existing Johnson Controls offerings for central HVAC chiller plants, the added capabilities are intended to support more comprehensive HVAC optimization in complex facilities, including healthcare campuses and advanced manufacturing environments. The first combined offering is currently being piloted.
Johnson Controls said the acquisition extends OpenBlue’s water-side optimization capabilities to include autonomous, AI-driven control across air- and water-side applications. The company said this will help building operators make more informed, automated decisions to improve energy efficiency while maintaining comfort and reliability.
Nantum AI will add to Johnson Controls’ portfolio of AI-powered building solutions with efficiency recommendations and enhanced control across air handling units, fans and other air circulation equipment. The added layer can use data from internal and external sources, including weather patterns and utility bill trends, to support more sophisticated efficiency recommendations and execution.
“We’re entering the next phase of the industrial revolution, where digital intelligence is as critical as the physical systems themselves, and the companies that leverage the power of AI to streamline processes, cut costs and unlock new customer value will win,” said Vijay Sankaran, Chief Digital and Information Officer at Johnson Controls. “With the addition of Nantum AI, we’re helping our customers better reduce energy use, manage complexity and run more resilient, efficient facilities.”
