ABB and KDHC Unite to Advance AI-Driven Heating in South Korea
ABB and Korea District Heating Corporation (KDHC) are joining forces to modernize South Korea’s heating network with artificial intelligence. The partnership builds on decades of collaboration and aims to make the country’s district heating smarter, more reliable, and more sustainable for over 1.9 million households.
Driving Digital Transformation in Energy Infrastructure
ABB and KDHC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to speed up AI adoption across South Korea’s district heating systems. Together, they will form an expert working group and hold joint workshops to develop and test advanced AI-driven solutions. This initiative combines ABB’s global automation expertise with KDHC’s 40 years of operational experience to create a next-generation digital infrastructure.
Accelerating the AI Transformation Roadmap
The partnership supports KDHC’s AI Transformation (AX) Roadmap, which focuses on integrating AI across the entire heating value chain. ABB will help implement scalable industrial AI solutions to improve energy management, reliability, and overall efficiency. Both companies plan to test new concepts through dedicated pilot projects and real-world testbeds.
Powering South Korea’s Energy Transition
South Korea is working to boost energy efficiency by 40% by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Modernizing the district heating network is a vital part of this goal. The system already reuses waste heat from power generation, and with AI optimization, it can further reduce energy waste and carbon emissions.
“KDHC’s AX Roadmap defines our path toward intelligent energy services,” said a KDHC spokesperson. “Partnering with ABB enhances our ability to deliver innovative and sustainable solutions that benefit both customers and communities.”
Building a Low-Carbon Future Together
“Our relationship with KDHC reflects trust and shared vision,” said Anders Maltesen, President of ABB Energy Industries, Asia. “By combining smart automation with AI, we are helping accelerate South Korea’s low-carbon transition while boosting performance and sustainability across the heating sector.”
A Partnership Focused on Innovation and Impact
The collaboration provides a clear framework for KDHC’s AI goals while allowing ABB to apply its industrial automation and digital expertise to critical energy infrastructure. Together, the companies will drive measurable improvements in energy efficiency, operational performance, and long-term sustainability.
About ABB
ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation, helping industries operate efficiently and sustainably. With over 140 years of innovation and 110,000 employees worldwide, ABB delivers technologies that empower customers to outperform.
About ABB Process Automation
ABB Process Automation helps industries automate, electrify, and digitalize essential operations. With around 20,000 employees, ABB provides the expertise and technology needed to make industries leaner, cleaner, and more resilient.