ABB has inaugurated its new multipurpose building, “Emotion,” at its Untersiggenthal site, marking the company’s largest investment in Switzerland in over a decade. This CHF 45 million project, completed after two years of construction, now houses employees from research and development, sales and service, and project management and engineering, offering 500 state-of-the-art workplaces that foster collaboration, innovation, and sustainability.
Promoting Attractive Work Environments
ABB is dedicated to providing attractive, modern work environments that support flexible office space and social interaction. The new building enables employees to share ideas and collaborate effectively, enhancing their everyday work experience.
“This investment strengthens ABB’s presence in Switzerland and our focus on high-growth future technologies. The new multipurpose building positions us as a top employer, helping us attract top talent and skilled professionals amidst a global skills shortage. We aim to offer our employees an environment that fosters innovation, a pioneering spirit, and sustainability,” said Nora Teuwsen, Country Holding Officer, ABB Switzerland.
Commitment to Switzerland
This new facility reaffirms ABB’s 130-year commitment to Switzerland and the strengths of the Baden region. “The Untersiggenthal site is a testament to the successful synergy between politics, business, education, and research,” said Stephan Attiger, Aargau Canton Councilor and Head of the Department of Construction, Transport, and Environment. “This location exemplifies Aargau’s innovation and technological prowess, demonstrating how local efforts can lead to global success.”
Global Hub for Power Electronics
Untersiggenthal is a crucial site where ABB develops and manufactures sustainable motion technology solutions for industrial processes, infrastructure, railways, and renewable energy applications. “Our new building not only symbolizes our connection to the Baden region but also strengthens our global center of excellence for power electronics. This key technology will enhance energy efficiency and sustainability in markets such as mobility, industry, and renewables. We are proud that our Motion business area significantly contributes to these efforts,” said Adrian Rothenbühler, Head of ABB Switzerland’s Motion business.
Power electronics are tailored to specific applications, ensuring reliable and efficient power conversion. They are utilized in traction converters for trains, e-buses, and trams, as well as in converters for wind and hydropower stations and variable speed drives for motors, enabling substantial energy savings and quality improvements. Over the years, ABB has grown its Power Electronics business from Untersiggenthal, creating nearly 300 new jobs in the past five years.
Sustainable Construction
ABB is committed to promoting a low-carbon society, preserving resources, and fostering social progress. The “Emotion” building embodies this strategy, constructed with over 2,200 cubic meters of zirkulit®, a recycled concrete that captures CO2. The building meets the Swiss Minergie standard and features advanced building automation technologies for enhanced comfort and energy efficiency. Its energy supply comes from photovoltaic systems and regional hydropower, with heating and cooling provided by groundwater heat pumps.
Key Figures Present at the Opening
The inauguration was attended by notable figures including Gabrielle Krafft (Chief Financial Officer, Traction Division), Chris Poynter (President System Drives Division), Adrian Rothenbühler (Local Head of Motion Business Area, ABB Switzerland), Tarak Mehta (President Motion Business Area, ABB), Nora Teuwsen (Country Holding Officer, ABB Switzerland), Bernd Krainick (Chairman of the board of directors, ABB Switzerland Ltd), Stephan Attiger (State Councilor of Aargau, Department of Construction, Transport and Environment), and Manuel Alberati (Architect, UC’NA).
ABB’s Vision
ABB, a leader in electrification and automation technology, aims to create a sustainable, resource-efficient future. With over 140 years of expertise, ABB’s 105,000 employees are dedicated to driving innovations that accelerate industrial transformation.