ABB Report: India Achieves 80 Percent Digital Readiness in Energy Efficiency
ABB’s study highlights how energy efficiency in India is evolving into a strategic priority as companies respond to rising costs and operational challenges.
March 17, 2026. By News Bureau
The survey, which covered 2,700 senior decision-makers across 15 countries and industries, reveals that 64 percent of industrial leaders in India have already invested in energy efficiency initiatives, while another 32 percent plan to invest within the next 12 months. Despite this strong intent, many organisations face challenges in achieving consistent results due to execution gaps.
Energy now accounts for 28 percent of operating costs in India, making it a significant financial factor for businesses. Around 72 percent of companies report that rising energy costs are threatening profitability, a figure notably higher than the global average of 59 percent.
"In India, the conversation around energy efficiency has matured from only a cost-saving tactic to a critical pillar of long-term business strategy. The next wave of competitive advantage will be defined by those who can bridge the ‘execution’ gap, turning data into actionable insights and embedding energy efficiency into the operational DNA of their organisation.” explained Amit Gupta, Local Division President, Motion Services in India, ABB.
“It’s no longer just about adopting technology; it's about building a culture of sustained, scalable execution to enhance profitability and resilience in a volatile market,” added Gupta.
While digital energy management tools are widely adopted or ready for deployment, only 41 percent of Indian companies consistently apply total cost of ownership (TCO) in investment decisions. This disconnect highlights the gap between strategic intent and practical implementation. Responsibility for energy efficiency is often fragmented across departments such as operations, sustainability, finance, and maintenance, leading to a lack of clear accountability.
Key barriers to energy efficiency in India include 42 percent workforce resistance to new technology, 42 percent lack of specialist resources, and 41 percent digital skills gap. These challenges indicate a shift from financial constraints to organisational and capability-related issues.
The report also identifies a growing trend of “post-renewables complacency”. Among Indian organisations that have adopted renewable energy (42 percent), about 36 percent have reduced their focus on energy efficiency.
While renewable energy reduces carbon emissions, it does not lower overall energy consumption. This creates missed opportunities for improving operational efficiency, reducing long-term costs, and enhancing resilience.
The next phase of industrial energy transition in India will depend on execution capabilities rather than intent alone. ABB emphasises the importance of integrated solutions, including diagnostics, modernisation of motor-driven systems, software-based optimisation, and lifecycle services, to deliver measurable results.
please contact: contact@energetica-india.net.
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