Now more than ever, the push toward renewable energy and efficient consumption are key drivers of modern manufacturing. However, OEMs are learning that far from a “magic bullet” approach, targeting zero emissions requires a multilayered strategy. ABB’s production facility in Zibo, Shandong province, China, is delivering measurable energy and emissions reductions through the implementation of advanced digital energy management and electrification solutions. 

PROJECT PROFILE 

  • Annual energy savings of more than 70 MWh, avoiding over 63 tons of carbon emissions 
  • Digital energy management, electrification and renewable electricity support a data-led decarbonization roadmap under ABB’s Mission to Zero program 
  • Recognized locally as a “Green Factory,” positioning the site as a regional leader in sustainable manufacturing

UPGRADES AT EVERY LEVEL

Driven by a site-wide sustainability roadmap focused on energy efficiency, electrification, renewable electricity, and digital energy management, the site has cut energy consumption by 71 MWh and avoided over 63 tons of carbon emissions annually—equivalent to the electricity needed to power several hundred average homes for a month. 

The facility has implemented a range of efficiency upgrades across core operations. LED lighting has been installed, air conditioning systems have been optimized based on real-time occupancy data, and upgrades to air compressor controls have reduced unnecessary energy use. Together, these initiatives are improving operational efficiency while lowering both emissions and costs, demonstrating how digitalization and smart energy management can accelerate low-carbon manufacturing. 

The Zibo site, which manufactures wiring accessories for the Smart Buildings portfolio, has installed an ABB energy management system that monitor, analyze and optimize energy performance across the site. This platform provides real-time visibility into energy consumption, enabling continuous improvement and data-driven decision-making. 

JOIN THE MISSION TO ZERO EMISSIONS

Building on these efficiency gains, the manufacturing facility operates entirely on renewable electricity, with approximately 15 percent of the site’s electricity demand covered now through renewable electricity generated by rooftop photovoltaic (PV) panels installed within the industrial park, complemented by certified green electricity procurement. The site is certified to ISO 50001 for energy management and has been recognized by local authorities as a Zibo City-level “Green Factory,” highlighting its role as a regional benchmark for sustainable industrial operations. 

The progress at Zibo shows how ABB’s “Mission to Zero” is translated into measurable results. By combining digital energy management, efficiency improvements and renewable electricity, the team has delivered tangible reductions in energy use and emissions, while strengthening the competitiveness of the site. This is exactly the kind of progress we want to scale across our global operations. 

A RENEWABLE FUTURE

Beyond energy and emissions, Zibo has established a clear path toward circular operations. The site has implemented waste reduction and recycling initiatives and is targeting Zero Waste to Landfill certification under UL2799 by the end of 2026, reinforcing its commitment to responsible resource use and sustainable manufacturing. 

The Zibo facility joins a growing global network of ABB Mission to Zero sites spanning Europe, the Americas, and Asia, all advancing toward low-carbon, energy-efficient, and digitally enabled operations.

UP CLOSE: ABB ELECTRIFICATION  

ABB Electrification is a global technology leader enabling the efficient and reliable distribution of electricity from source to socket. With more than 50,000 employees across 100 countries, we collaborate with our customers and partners to solve the world’s greatest challenges in electrical distribution and energy management. As the energy transition accelerates and electricity demands grow, we are electrifying the world in a safe, smart and sustainable way. At ABB, we are engineered to outrun, and we are passionate about helping our customers and partners do the same. 

ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource efficient future. By connecting its engineering and digitalization expertise, ABB helps industries run at high performance, while becoming more efficient, productive, and sustainable so they outperform. At ABB, we call this ‘Engineered to Outrun’. The company has over 140 years of history and more than 110,000 employees worldwide. For more information, visit www.abb.com.