Johnson Controls - Experts & Thought Leaders

Johnson Controls, the pioneer for smart, healthy, and sustainable buildings, announced the launch of the NSW8000 Series Wireless Network Sensor for Metasys building automation systems (BAS) and FX series programmable controllers. This innovative multisensor offers a seamless and cost-effective solution for real-time monitoring of temperature, relative humidity (RH), and occupancy (PIR) detection with optional CO2 sensing for improved air quality monitoring.  Integration of building sensors The full integration of building sensors and controls is a key pillar in a commercial building The full integration of building sensors and controls is a key pillar in a commercial building’s digitalization, where intelligence is delivered to the BAS, leading to improved operations, costs, and efficiency. The NSW8000 provides a versatile, convenient network sensor that gives facility teams a fuller picture of what’s happening with their space and equipment. Metasys systems and FX series controllers “From facility managers to HVAC technicians to automation specialists, our customers need solutions that help them optimize operational efficiency, maximize energy savings and enhance occupant comfort,” said Kaishi Zhang, Vice President of Global Product Management, Building Automation Systems and Controls at Johnson Controls. “Paired with our Metasys systems and FX series controllers, the NSW8000 provides maximum versatility and control, empowering our customers to unlock the full potential of their buildings as strategic assets.” Advanced engineering and design features The NSW8000 boasts advanced engineering and design features that ensure future upgrades, minimize installation impact, and provide flexible, user-friendly options.  Reliable Connectivity: Runs on a wireless mesh network with multiple sources of connectivity to help ensure reliability and uptime. Excellent Range: Provides up to 150 feet of coverage, offering excellent range for a battery-powered unit while providing more reliable control in structures that require wireless installations.  Secure Data Transmission: Guarantees secure data transmission with AES-128-bit encryption.  Future Ready: Engineered for future upgrades, allowing facility managers to access the latest features as product technology and wireless networks evolve for even greater long-term performance and value.  Minimal Maintenance: Powered by two readily available lithium or alkaline AA batteries for minimal maintenance. Most NSW8000 sensors have a 10-year battery life, while CO2 sensors offer a 5-year battery life. In addition, battery-powered operation makes installation easier and less costly, since technicians do not need to pull wires or conduit.   Architectural Preservation: The NSW8000 wireless construction minimizes installation impact on architectural details, decorative surfaces and other sensitive structures such as museums or historic buildings.   Enhanced Display: Three display options are available to optimize flexibility, comfort, and control.  Wide selection of network sensors Johnson Controls provides a wide selection of network and non-network sensors designed for efficiency and easy installation.  The company’s offerings include humidity, HVAC temperature, pressure, carbon dioxide and occupancy sensors, engineered to integrate seamlessly with various systems to meet facility needs.

Johnson Controls, the pioneer for smart, healthy, and sustainable buildings, has been named a top thermal management provider for data centers by ABI Research. The recognition highlights Johnson Controls' excellence in innovation and implementation, driven by its comprehensive product portfolio, global presence, and customer-centric approach to the data center thermal management industry. Innovative building technologies "Johnson Controls has consistently exceeded market expectations for thermal management across all industries and is a pioneering player in mission-critical infrastructure, like data centers, where reliable, energy-efficient, and innovative building technologies are a game-changer," said Rithika Thomas, sustainable technologies senior analyst at ABI Research. "The company's comprehensive and extensive portfolio, combined with its ability to deliver end-to-end solutions from design, deployment, and operational support, cement its position as a pioneer in the space. Its success in balancing operational efficiency, sustainability, and scalability is truly noteworthy." Needs of hyperscale and colocation data centers Johnson Controls offers a wide range of air-cooled and water-cooled chillers designed for unique needs In thermal management, Johnson Controls offers a wide range of air-cooled and water-cooled chillers designed to address the unique needs of hyperscale and colocation data centers.  Innovations like the YORK® YVAM chiller, which can reduce energy consumption by up to 40% in real-world conditions, are crucial when HVAC equipment can account for up to 40% of a data center's total electricity usage. Ultra-low GWP refrigerant The YVAM operates with zero water on-site and ultra-low GWP refrigerant and 1234ze, and uses Johnson Controls' proprietary magnetic-bearing technology, originally developed for naval applications.  This ensures reliability, efficiency, and quiet operation at 65 dBA—equivalent to the noise level of background music at a restaurant. The YVAM also features Quick Start technology, enabling it to return to full load in just three minutes after a power interruption. Decarbonization goals "Being recognized by ABI Research is a true honor, and it reflects our ongoing commitment to providing innovative, scalable, and consistent solutions that are tailored to individual customers and meet the ever-evolving needs of the data center industry," said Johnson Controls President of Global Data Center Solutions Todd Grabowski.   "Our integrated approach, combining world-class products, expert support, and customized service programs, enables our customers to achieve their uptime and speed to deployment requirements while also improving performance, lowering operational costs, and meeting decarbonization goals." Thermal management solution Johnson Controls' customers have commended the "one-stop" integrated approach catering for the entire lifecycle According to ABI Research, Johnson Controls' customers have commended the "one-stop" integrated approach catering for the entire lifecycle of their buildings — across thermal management, building automation, fire protection, physical security, energy efficiency, and digitally enabled connected service offerings that seamlessly work together to deliver intelligent, high-performing data center operations.  The new Competitive Assessment by global technology intelligence firm ABI Research provides an in-depth and unbiased examination of the top nine pioneering thermal management solution providers for DC operations, which include hardware, software, and allied services provided in-house or through strategic partnerships.  Unique Needs of North America In June 2024, Johnson Controls launched a dedicated Global Data Center Solutions organization to address the industry's rapid growth. Since then, the company has boosted capacity in key regions to enhance production and reduce lead times. This specialized organization allows Johnson Controls to provide consistent, high-quality, centralized solutions across the globe, while also adapting to the unique needs of North America, EMEA and APAC, ensuring smooth and reliable support for data center operators worldwide.

Johnson Controls, a global pioneer in smart, healthy, and sustainable buildings announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Joakim Weidemanis as Chief Executive Officer effective March 12, 2025, following the Company’s Annual General Meeting of Shareholders.  He succeeds George R. Oliver following a thorough succession planning process.  Non-Executive Chairman Oliver, who led the Company’s successful transformation into a pure-play building solutions provider, will continue to serve as Non-Executive Chairman of the Board until July 31, 2025. At that time, he will be succeeded as Chairman by Mark P. Vergnano, who has served on the Johnson Controls Board since 2016. Oliver will remain as an advisor to the Company until Dec. 31, 2025, to provide ongoing support and ensure a smooth leadership transition. Weidemanis work experience Weidemanis has lived and worked in the United States, Europe, and Asia throughout his approximately 30-year career Weidemanis is a seasoned operator with a successful track record in pioneering global technology-driven businesses and delivering profitable growth. He held several executive leadership roles over his 13-year career at Danaher Corporation providing him with extensive experience scaling global companies from a foundation of customer orientation, innovation, and efficiency.  Operational leadership He most recently served as Executive Vice President, of Diagnostics and China at Danaher, where he was responsible for operational leadership of an approximately $15 billion group across eight global technology businesses.  Through acquisitions and organic growth, the revenue of Danaher’s Diagnostics business grew significantly over four years during his leadership. Earlier in his career, he held executive positions of increasing operational responsibility at Mettler Toledo and ABB. Weidemanis has lived and worked in the United States, Europe, and Asia throughout his approximately 30-year career. end-to-end operating model “The Board identified Joakim as uniquely suited to lead Johnson Controls during its next chapter of growth as a pure-play provider of comprehensive solutions for commercial buildings,” said Jürgen Tinggren, lead independent director of the Johnson Controls Board. “Joakim’s approach to pioneering service-oriented businesses aligns well with both the Johnson Controls approach and our end-to-end operating model." financial performance "Throughout his career, he has demonstrated remarkable ability as an operator of large global businesses, scaling both organically and inorganically, and is adept in shaping product portfolios and leveraging technology to deliver best-in-class financial performance.” Tinggren continued, “As we have made substantial progress in our transformation, George has set the stage for Johnson Controls to capitalize on the opportunities ahead. On behalf of the Johnson Controls Board, we thank him for his remarkable leadership over the last eight years.” mission-driven culture “As I come to know Johnson Controls, I am energized by its mission-driven culture and strong 140-year legacy of developing market-pioneering technology and solutions that enable customers to manage their facilities in a smarter, more sustainable, and more productive way,” said Weidemanis. “I am deeply passionate about pioneering global technology-driven businesses that help customers advance their goals and make a meaningful, positive impact on society. I look forward to leveraging my experience and the foundation George and the team have built to deliver on the company’s full potential for customers, employees, and shareholders.” ensuring a smooth transition “Joakim is the ideal person to lead Johnson Controls as CEO,” said Oliver. “The efforts we have made over the past eight years have transformed Johnson Controls into a simpler, more profitable, and faster growing Company better able to deliver on our financial and operational objectives." "As we build on the momentum from fiscal 2024, I look forward to working with Joakim and the team to ensure a smooth leadership transition and a promising future for Johnson Controls.”

The HVAC Industry gathered in Orlando for AHR Expo 2025, focusing on the latest advancements in technology. Attendees included contractors, manufacturers, engineers, system design professionals, facility managers, architects, wholesalers, and distributors. This year’s expo highlighted game-changing innovations, regulatory shifts, and emerging trends designed to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and connectivity. For HVAC professionals, these developments translate into practical solutions that improve system performance, optimize energy use, and simplify compliance with evolving industry standards. The Next Phase of Refrigerant Transition The transition to A2L refrigerants is a dominant theme at this year’s expo, with major players such as Arkema, Chemours, LG Electronics, Rheem, Daikin, and others showcasing the latest refrigerants and equipment solutions. Following the deadline of Jan. 1, 2025, the shift from R-410A to R-32 and R-454B is well underway, with 80% of manufacturers opting for R-454B. While concerns about flammability persist, experts emphasize that proper training and system design can mitigate risks. LG Electronics' full product line Some OEMs opted for R-454B as an option that is closer to a “drop-in” solution Some OEMs opted for R-454B as an option that is closer to a “drop-in” solution. Daikin was among the manufacturers to go all-in on R-32, which required a complete redesign of product components, ultimately pioneering to more efficient, cost-effective systems, according to the company. LG Electronics' full product line now uses R-32 refrigerant, and they started shipping products in December. All R-410A equipment will be gone by the end of Q1. variety of products on R-454B refrigerant Rheem announced their 100-year anniversary, and a new tagline, "Engineered for Life." They say the trend is toward side-discharge heat pumps, although the industry needs a mix of both. They had a variety of products on display that use R-454B refrigerant.  Attendees at AHR Expo 2025 came away with an understanding that refrigerant regulations and selecting compatible equipment will be crucial for ensuring smooth transitions in commercial and residential applications. Intelligent Building Automation and Controls Smart HVAC technology is revolutionizing building control, with AI-driven automation Smart HVAC technology is revolutionizing building management, with AI-driven automation, IoT connectivity, and remote monitoring taking center stage. Companies like Distech Controls and Schneider Electric are introducing IP-based controllers that integrate seamlessly with existing building management systems. Belimo’s intelligent butterfly valve and Delta’s Node-RED Programming with built-in Python support, among other products, are making automation more powerful and user-friendly. Copeland’s Sensi Touch 2 smart thermostat Copeland’s Sensi Touch 2 smart thermostat and Sensi equipment interface module (EIM) can eliminate the need to pull additional wires during installation. The system is weatherproof, indoor, or outdoor, and communicates using radio frequency (RF). AHR Expo 2025 made a strong case that investing in smart controls will improve operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and enable predictive maintenance. Hydronic Systems for Data Center Cooling One major player is Bell & Gossett/Xylem, whose hydronic cooling systems target data center market The rise of data center cooling solutions was another recurring theme at AHR. One prominent player is Bell & Gossett/Xylem, whose hydronic cooling systems target the data center market. The company’s e-1531X and e-1532X smart pumps offer enhanced energy efficiency and a larger "efficiency island." These systems are designed to meet the growing demand for sustainable data center cooling, providing a net-zero roadmap. As data center energy consumption rises, hydronic solutions offer a scalable, efficient approach to thermal management. Heat Pumps Expand Capabilities and Market Reach Heat pumps continue to dominate as a top energy-efficient alternative for commercial and residential applications. Companies such as Danfoss, Mitsubishi, and Samsung are pushing the boundaries with heat pumps that operate in extreme temperatures. Danfoss is progressing forward related to four application areas at AHR 2025--heat pumps, data centers, RTU/DOAS, and retail/refrigeration. Emphasis is on lower emissions and better energy efficiency. Midea drew a lot of attention at AHR 2025, including modular air handler Midea drew a lot of attention at AHR 2025, including their modular air handler – the  EVOX G³ – that breaks down into three pieces for easy movement and installation in any of six configurations. They are also opening showrooms throughout the country so consumers and contractors can see and touch the products. Integration with renewable energy sources Johnson Controls-Hitachi mini-splits have a self-cleaning feature called FrostWash Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning’s Hitachi mini-splits have a self-cleaning feature called "FrostWash;" they intentionally build a frost layer on the coil so the fine particulates can be captured and then melted away, thus avoiding mold and other contaminants. It can be used in lieu of UV light, which damages plastics. The heat pump market is growing rapidly, and advancements in low-temperature performance and integration with renewable energy sources will drive adoption. The Drive Toward Sustainability Sustainability is a recurring theme at the expo, with manufacturers prioritizing energy-efficient equipment, smart automation, and low-GWP refrigerants. Companies like Lennox, and Rheem are launching highly efficient packaged rooftop units and unitary heat pump systems. Grundfos’s distributed pumping technology and Ziehl-Abegg’s ZAcore intelligent control platform further demonstrate the industry's push toward lower energy consumption and minimal environmental impact. Investing in sustainable HVAC technologies Availability is paramount, and they are opening a new factory in Mexico Lennox is serving the "emergency replacement" market for HVAC equipment with their Xion line. Availability is paramount, and they are opening a new factory in Mexico. Telling the "story" of humidification at AHR 2025, Condair has products for any vertical. They say more education and awareness are needed on the value of humidification. As regulations tighten and demand for green building solutions rises, investing in sustainable HVAC technologies will be critical for long-term success. Smarter, Cleaner, and More Efficient AHR Expo 2025 underscores the industry's shift toward smarter, cleaner, and more efficient HVAC solutions. Whether it’s refrigerant transitions, intelligent automation, or advanced heat pump technology, staying ahead of these trends will help HVAC professionals deliver superior performance while meeting regulatory requirements. The innovations showcased in Orlando set the stage for a future where HVAC systems are not only more efficient and environmentally friendly but also easier to manage and integrate into modern buildings.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DoE) Commercial Heat Pump Accelerator program is designed to enhance building efficiency and electrification. Running from 2024 through 2027, the program aims to overcome adoption barriers, promote advanced heat pump technologies, and create sustainable solutions for HVAC professionals. Compared with conventional packaged rooftop units (RTUs) with natural gas heating, heat pump RTUs are estimated to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy costs by up to 50%. For those in the HVAC industry, this program is an opportunity to boost operational efficiency, align with emerging sustainability standards, and unlock new business. Transforming Commercial HVAC with Heat Pumps Known for their dual heating and cooling abilities, heat pumps save energy compared to conventional HVAC systems The DoE’s program centers on accelerating the adoption of high-efficiency heat pumps for space conditioning and water heating. By working collaboratively with stakeholders—including manufacturers, utilities, and facility managers—the initiative seeks to integrate energy-efficient solutions into commercial buildings nationwide. Known for their dual heating and cooling capabilities, heat pumps save energy compared to conventional HVAC systems. The Accelerator program prioritizes cutting-edge systems to lower energy consumption and operating costs for businesses. As decarbonization becomes a global priority, electrification of HVAC systems is also key. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, heat pumps contribute to a cleaner energy future. Practical Benefits for Professionals For HVAC professionals, the program provides a framework to explore new markets and enhance service offerings. With the Accelerator program’s emphasis on efficiency, HVAC professionals can help clients reduce energy bills, providing a tangible ROI for heat pump installations. Participants in the program also gain access to technical guidance, best practices, and case studies, fostering skills to implement heat pumps effectively. As building owners seek energy-efficient solutions, HVAC professionals are positioned as experts in heat pump technology in order to gain a competitive edge. Success of the residential challenge The retail program is a growth of an earlier program related to residential technologies The commercial program is an expansion of an earlier program related to residential technologies. Last fall, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced that eight manufacturers in the Residential Cold Climate Heat Pump Challenge completed rigorous product field testing to demonstrate energy efficiency and improved performance in cold weather. Bosch, Carrier, Daikin, Johnson Controls, Lennox, Midea, Rheem, and Trane Technologies participated in the residential challenge. Cold climate heat pumps (CCHPs) developed as part of the challenge will soon enter commercial production, manufacturers say.  Building upon the success of the residential challenge, DOE is now working with nine heat pump manufacturers to advance rooftop units (RTUs) for commercial buildings through a new technology challenge. Commercial Building Heat Pump Challenge Expanding with the Commercial Building Heat Pump Challenge through its Better Buildings program, DoE is now working with heat pump manufacturers AAON, Addison, Carrier, Daikin, Johnson Controls, Lennox, LG, Rheem, and Trane Technologies to improve the energy efficiency and performance of RTUs in cold weather. The manufacturers will partner with DoE and national laboratories to create prototypes and test product performance and durability. They will then lead field validations with Better Buildings partners, including Amazon, General Motors, Ikea, the Los Angeles Unified School District, Target, Whole Foods, and others. Tackling Challenges in Heat Pump Adoption The DoE program recognizes common challenges HVAC professionals face in promoting commercial heat pump adoption and provides strategic solutions. Cost Barriers: The upfront cost of heat pumps can deter clients. The program encourages collaboration with utilities to offer incentives and financing options, making the transition more affordable. Performance in Cold Climates: Heat pumps have historically underperformed in colder regions. By focusing on technological advancements, the Accelerator addresses performance issues, ensuring systems work efficiently even in extreme weather. Workforce Training: To ensure seamless implementation, the DoE supports workforce development through training programs, thus empowering HVAC professionals to deliver high-quality installations. A Collective Push for Change The Accelerator agenda thrives on alliances, leveraging the expertise of diverse stakeholders The Accelerator program thrives on partnerships, leveraging the expertise of diverse stakeholders. For manufacturers and innovators, the program promotes advanced heat pump technologies that meet the diverse needs of commercial buildings. For utilities and energy providers, there are incentives to encourage adoption and offset initial costs. Building owners and facility managers can benefit from sharing insights and case studies to demonstrate the practical benefits of heat pumps in real-world scenarios. In general, HVAC professionals can benefit by staying connected to these networks, keeping abreast of new technologies and customer-centric solutions. Heat Pumps and a Greener Future Heat pumps align with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and meet regulatory requirements. For HVAC professionals, this means not only improving the environmental impact of their services but also helping clients achieve compliance with evolving energy codes and standards. The DoE’s Commercial Heat Pump Accelerator program offers HVAC professionals a clear path to embrace innovation, improve energy efficiency, and secure a leadership position in a rapidly changing marketplace. By participating in the program, HVAC experts can drive the industry forward while enhancing their businesses and delivering meaningful value to clients. As the HVAC landscape evolves, those who seize this opportunity will not only adapt but thrive, setting new benchmarks for efficiency and sustainability in the years to come.

It’s often said the only constant in life is change. In the HVACR industry, that phrase has been especially true. We saw another year of transitions in 2024 that included evolving efficiency and refrigerant regulations, changing corporate net zero targets, the continued emergence of advanced heat pumps, and the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in building management.  Smart and sustainable Throughout these transformations, the industry continues to overcome challenges and innovate as we transform the places where people live, work, and play into smarter, healthier, and more sustainable spaces.    As we look toward 2025, we can expect to see a continued, industrywide focus on decarbonization, heat pump development, A2L refrigerants, and AI as regulations expand and new technologies emerge.    Decarbonization  Decarbonization continues to be a very high priority for both the residential and commercial sectors Decarbonization continues to be a very high priority for both the residential and commercial sectors. This focus has transformed the way we design and install HVAC equipment and has created tremendous opportunities for those who invest in educating themselves on the evolving technologies, regulations, and incentives. Today’s building professionals and homeowners have an unprecedented number of incentives available at the federal, state, and utility levels encouraging decarbonization transitions.  Digital and net zero services For example, tax credits such as 25C for consumers and 179D for commercial building owners were expanded under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and can significantly reduce the upfront costs of high-efficiency equipment, creating a compelling offer to replace less efficient systems. In commercial buildings, combining high-efficiency HVAC equipment like electric heat pumps with digital technologies and net zero services can help empower organizations to optimize their buildings and subsystems for both the short- and long-term. Heat pumps  Heat pump technology has advanced significantly in recent years, providing an electrified, high-efficiency HVAC option for nearly all applications – even those operating within colder climates. The Department of Energy’s (DOE) Residential Cold Climate Heat Pump (CCHP) Technology Challenge has propelled the successful introduction of heat pump prototypes that can withstand subfreezing weather. Similarly, the DOE’s Commercial Building Rooftop Heat Pump Accelerator program has helped drive packaged heat pump performance toward greater efficiency for commercial and light commercial buildings located in colder climate zones.  Water-to-water heat pumps Water-to-water heat pumps can replace legacy chiller and boiler combinations without the need for major changes Innovations in commercial water-to-water compound centrifugal heat pumps are also accelerating decarbonization within building retrofits. For facilities that require simultaneous heating and cooling, such as hospitals and universities, water-to-water heat pumps can replace legacy chiller and boiler combinations without the need for major changes to the existing HVAC infrastructure. This partial decarbonization approach can help building operators achieve their decarbonization goals while also lowering operational expenses (OpEx). In many instances, this reduction in OpEx also provides a path to funding additional decarbonization strategies.      A2L refrigerants   The EPA continues to make strides in reducing the consumption and production of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act. As part of the AIM Act, the Technology Transitions Program will usher in sector-based regulations beginning January 1, 2025, prohibiting the manufacturing of equipment using refrigerants with a GWP higher than 700.  New protocols As a result, new equipment will continue to hit the market throughout 2025. In tandem, many contractors and technicians will begin working with A2L refrigerants for the first time. Because these refrigerants are classified by ASHRAE as mildly flammable, new protocols for safe refrigerant servicing, storage, and transportation, and refrigerant leak detection (RDS) requirements will be necessary for some applications.   ACCA A2L refrigerant training Contractors should complete ACCA A2L refrigerant training and EPA section 608 certification With these changes, it is important to become familiar with updated codes, including UL 60335-2-40, 3rd and 4th editions, ASHRAE 15 and 15.,2, and the AHRI Safe Refrigerant Transition Task Force (SRTTF), as well as local and state regulations. Contractors should also complete ACCA A2L refrigerant training and EPA section 608 certification. Additionally, new digital tools such as RDS calculators can help contractors navigate A2L leak detection requirements and mitigation strategies while in the field.    AI and controls   AI is positioned to continue to make a huge impact in HVAC. We’re seeing more service techs using generative AI and co-pilots for troubleshooting rather than paging through manuals. At the same time, AI technology can predict if connected HVAC units may have issues, making it possible for service techs to address potential issues in their earliest stages or prevent them from happening altogether. Both of these use cases can help technicians service equipment more quickly, efficiently, and accurately, which can increase equipment longevity and reliability while reducing downtime and total cost of ownership.   Building performance AI-powered building controls can provide a holistic view into contextualized, full-building performance More HVAC systems are being equipped with AI-enhanced controls and reporting. The capabilities these tools provide can give building owners greater opportunities to optimize building performance, improve occupant comfort and well-being, and more easily reach sustainability targets. From a building management perspective, AI-powered building controls can provide a holistic view into contextualized, full-building performance, occupant experience, and sustainability. Openness and flexibility As AI becomes more commonplace, AI-centric building standards, such as ASHRAE Guideline 36, will also continue to emerge that balance sustainability with occupant comfort, health, and safety.    As we move into 2025, we can expect to see another year of equipment innovations, technology advancements, and evolving regulations. As an industry, we continue to face change with openness and flexibility. And it’s this mindset that empowers us to meet, and exceed, expectations – now and in the year to come.