ABB has announced an agreement to acquire Netcontrol, a provider of advanced electrical grid automation solutions for utilities and critical infrastructure. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals. Financial details were not disclosed.

Advancing Grid Digitalisation Amid Energy Transition

The global push for electrification and renewable integration is placing pressure on power grids. The International Energy Agency forecasts that electricity will account for 50% of global energy use by 2050. As demand grows and extreme weather events increase, utilities require smarter and more resilient grids.

Author Insight: Industrial automation and control systems are increasingly critical in managing distributed energy resources and variable loads. Digitalisation and automation allow utilities to maintain stability while integrating new energy sources.

How Netcontrol Enhances ABB’s Grid Automation Offering

Netcontrol, headquartered in Helsinki with approximately 100 employees, provides solutions for real-time monitoring, control, and automation of power distribution networks. By integrating Netcontrol’s technology, ABB aims to expand its Distribution Solutions portfolio, offering customers advanced tools to improve grid reliability, resilience, and flexibility.

Expert Note: Netcontrol’s software and hardware complement ABB’s existing PLC, DCS, and control system solutions, enabling utilities to manage both legacy and modern grids efficiently.

Strategic Importance of the Acquisition

“The electrical grid is becoming the bottleneck of the energy transition,” said Adrian Guggisberg, Division President of ABB Distribution Solutions. Adding renewable energy and new consumption patterns, such as electric vehicles and heat pumps, increases grid complexity. ABB’s acquisition of Netcontrol supports utilities in digitalising and automating their networks to ensure stable power delivery.

Author Insight: Utilities that embrace integrated industrial automation solutions gain operational predictability and can respond faster to grid disturbances.

Netcontrol’s Perspective on Joining ABB

Sami Kurunsaari, CEO of Netcontrol, stated that joining ABB enables global reach and scale. Customers will continue receiving trusted products and services, while ABB’s portfolio allows broader deployment of Netcontrol’s technology. This collaboration accelerates innovation in grid automation for industrial and utility customers.

Expert Note: Combining ABB’s global sales network with Netcontrol’s specialized technology allows faster adoption of automated and intelligent grid solutions.

Expected Integration and Customer Benefits

Once the deal closes, Netcontrol’s solutions will be integrated into ABB’s Distribution Solutions portfolio. Utilities can expect improved grid monitoring, faster automation deployment, and enhanced operational resilience. ABB’s expertise in industrial automation, control systems, and factory automation will complement Netcontrol’s offerings.

Author Insight: This acquisition illustrates a broader trend of consolidation in industrial automation, where advanced control systems and smart grid technologies converge for digital transformation.

Practical Applications and Solution Scenarios

• Smart Utilities: Real-time control and monitoring of distribution networks using integrated DCS and PLC systems

• Renewable Integration: Automated grid management for solar, wind, and hybrid energy sources

• Critical Infrastructure: Reliable power delivery for hospitals, data centers, and industrial campuses

• Electric Vehicle Charging Networks: Grid flexibility and stability while supporting high EV load demands