Johnson Controls has acquired Nantum AI, a New York-based company specialising in AI algorithms for building energy optimisation, in a move that expands the capabilities of its OpenBlue digital platform across both air- and water-side HVAC systems.

The acquisition, announced on 30 April 2026, integrates Nantum AI’s proprietary algorithms into OpenBlue to enable real-time airflow optimisation based on occupancy data. Combined with OpenBlue’s existing chiller plant efficiency tools, the expanded platform targets comprehensive HVAC optimisation across complex facilities including healthcare campuses and advanced manufacturing environments. A first combined offering is already in pilot.

Beyond smart buildings to autonomous control

Johnson Controls framed the deal as a step toward what it describes as the next phase of industrial automation — buildings that optimise themselves without manual intervention. By layering Nantum AI’s algorithms on top of traditional building automation systems, operators gain the ability to draw on external data sources such as weather patterns and utility pricing to make efficiency decisions automatically.

Nantum AI is owned by Prescriptive Holdings LLC. Michael Rudin, a board member of Prescriptive Holdings, said the technology has already demonstrated more than 10% energy savings for customers.

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. — Vijay Sankaran, Chief Digital and Information Officer, Johnson Controls

Energy efficiency as a business imperative

The acquisition fits within a broader push by enterprise technology vendors to embed AI into building operations as energy costs rise and decarbonisation targets tighten. Johnson Controls’ OpenBlue platform already serves sectors including data centres, pharmaceuticals and higher education — verticals where energy consumption and operational resilience are critical concerns.

Johnson Controls trades on the NYSE under the ticker JCI. Financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.