ABB leads the charge for a global robot energy standard

ABB Robotics is spearheading an initiative to develop a global, standardized method for measuring the energy consumption and efficiency of industrial robots. This effort is designed to improve transparency and support a global transition to sustainable manufacturing.

“With no global standard currently in place, it’s a challenge for customers to compare the energy consumption of different robots and choose the most energy-efficient solution.” said Gianluca Brotto, head of sustainability, ABB Robotics. “Unlike other products such as fridges, TVs, washing machines and motors, which have clearly defined standards for how to measure and compare energy efficiency, there is no standard for measuring the energy consumption of a robot. This initiative will empower customers to make informed decisions and help the industry reduce its carbon footprint.”

Collaborating with the Swedish Institute for Standardization (SIS), ABB Robotics developed a proposal with experts from different robot manufacturers and research institutes, which led to the creation of a technical specification for global adoption. This is due to be completed by August 2026.

With more than 4 million industrial robots operating worldwide according to the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), reducing the environmental impact of robotic systems would align with the Paris Agreement.

ABB said its internal studies show that more than 70% of its customer robots’ carbon footprint stems from electricity usage during its operational phase.