ABB, the Swiss technology company, has announced that it has agreed to acquire Cylon Controls Ltd, a UCD spin-out which provides building automation and HVAC control solutions, delivering energy and comfort solutions for commercial and retail buildings, schools and healthcare facilities.

Oliver Iltisberger, ABB’s head of smart buildings, said: “The acquisition will further enhance our portfolio of solutions for the commercial buildings segment, with a particular focus on delivering new innovations in energy-optimisation and comfort.”

Seán Giblin, CEO, Cylon, said: “We are very excited to become part of ABB, a company that shares our commitment and passion for increasing comfort, energy and operational efficiency within buildings.”

Commercialise engineering research

Cylon was established by Seán Giblin to commercialise engineering research carried out by him at UCD. Since then Cylon has developed and maintained a strong partnership with the university, especially through the UCD School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering and NovaUCD. UCD has also been a significant customer of Cylon having installed the Cylon Active Energy system throughout the university.

Tom Flanagan, UCD director of enterprise and commercialisation, NovaUCD, said: “One of the earliest companies to spin-out of the university Cylon has grown into an international company with global reach while delivering significant energy cost saving impact for its many customers around the world.

"I would like to congratulate Seán and the entire Cylon team on today’s milestone announcement which is a reflection of the international success and impact achieved by the company since it was established.”