ABB has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Netcontrol, a specialist in grid automation technologies serving power utilities and operators of critical infrastructure. The transaction is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory clearances and standard closing conditions. The financial details of the deal have not been disclosed.
As global electrification gathers pace and energy systems undergo rapid transformation, electricity networks are facing mounting pressure from growing consumption, higher penetration of renewable energy, and increasingly frequent extreme weather events. According to projections by the International Energy Agency, electricity could account for nearly half of global energy consumption by 2050, underscoring the urgent need for smarter, more resilient grids. By combining ABB’s extensive electrification portfolio with Netcontrol’s advanced automation and digital grid solutions, the company aims to support utilities in modernizing and future-proofing their networks.
Netcontrol, headquartered in Helsinki, Finland, was founded in 1991 and employs around 100 professionals. The company is currently owned by Procuritas Partners, a Sweden-based private equity firm. Following completion of the acquisition, Netcontrol’s technologies and services are expected to be integrated into ABB’s Distribution Solutions division and made available through ABB’s global sales and service network.
Adrian Guggisberg, Division President of ABB Distribution Solutions, said that power grids are increasingly becoming the limiting factor in the energy transition. As renewable generation grows and new loads such as electric vehicles and heat pumps are added, maintaining grid stability and flexibility becomes more complex. He noted that digitalization and automation are essential tools for utilities, and that Netcontrol’s expertise is a strong complement to ABB’s strategy of expanding its grid automation offerings.
Sami Kurunsaari, CEO of Netcontrol, described the move as a significant milestone for the company. He said joining ABB would provide greater scale, global reach, and portfolio strength, enabling Netcontrol to bring its solutions to a wider customer base while continuing to serve existing clients with the same level of technical collaboration and reliability.
ABB is a global leader in electrification and automation, with a workforce of around 110,000 employees and more than 140 years of industrial heritage. Its shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange and Nasdaq Stockholm.
