Johnson Controls announced it has acquired Nantum AI, a New York-based developer of artificial intelligence algorithms designed to improve building energy efficiency and operational performance. The acquisition strengthens Johnson Controls’ OpenBlue digital ecosystem by adding advanced AI-driven control capabilities to optimize HVAC systems and reduce energy consumption.
Nantum AI’s technology enables real-time optimization of building airflow based on occupancy, expanding OpenBlue’s capabilities beyond central HVAC systems to include more granular, system-wide control. The combined offering is already being piloted and is expected to deliver enhanced performance across complex environments such as healthcare campuses and advanced manufacturing facilities.
The integration extends OpenBlue’s existing optimization capabilities from water-side systems, such as chiller plants, to include autonomous, AI-driven control across both air- and water-side applications. This broader intelligence layer allows building operators to make more automated, data-driven decisions that improve efficiency while maintaining comfort and reliability.
Nantum AI, which is owned by Prescriptive Holdings LLC, has demonstrated the ability to deliver more than 10 percent energy savings for customers. Its algorithms leverage data from multiple sources, including occupancy patterns, weather conditions, and utility trends, to optimize energy usage without compromising system performance.
The acquisition adds to Johnson Controls’ growing portfolio of AI-powered building solutions, enhancing its ability to provide actionable efficiency recommendations and automated control across air handling units, fans, and broader building systems.
Johnson Controls said the move aligns with increasing demand for solutions that reduce energy use, emissions, and operating costs, particularly as businesses face rising energy prices and growing pressure to decarbonize operations.
KEY QUOTES:
“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. With the addition of Nantum AI, we’re helping our customers better reduce energy use, manage complexity and run more resilient, efficient facilities.”
Vijay Sankaran, Chief Digital And Information Officer, Johnson Controls
“Artificial intelligence has enormous potential to improve how buildings operate and, with energy demand and costs continuing to climb, leveraging it to increase energy efficiency is a business imperative. Nantum AI is already delivering more than 10% energy savings for customers and we are pleased to see how our algorithms complement Johnson Controls’ existing deep building expertise.”
Michael Rudin, Board Member, Prescriptive Holdings LLC
