ABB Strengthens Grid Software with Acquisition of Keymile’s Communication Networks Business

ABB, Zurich, Switzerland, agreed to acquire the mission-critical communication business of the Keymile Group, Hanover, Germany, to strengthen its communication networks portfolio. Terms of the deal, expected to close in the third quarter, were not disclosed.

ABB said in a release that the acquisition will bring with it key products, software and service solutions, as well as research and development expertise. These will be added to the company’s ABB Ability digital platform to expand its communications technologies for maintaining digital electrical grids.

Keymile, founded in 2002 from a merger of three technology companies in Austria, Germany and Switzerland, has 350 employees globally making mission-critical and broadband telecommunication solutions, with installations across 100 countries. The 120 employees of the acquired business will join the Grid Automation business unit of ABB’s Power Grids division. The business serves network operators of energy grids, railways, oil and gas pipelines, as well as public authorities.

“ABB is a global leader in communication networks for utility customers. The acquisition of Keymile’s mission-critical communication business will strengthen this position and extend our market reach in the industrial, transportation and infrastructure sectors,” said Claudio Facchin, president of ABB’s Power Grids division. “This move supports our growth plans and digitalization push as part of our ABB Ability offering, as we strengthen our position as the partner of choice in enabling a stronger, smarter and greener grid.”