ABB’s Energy Efficiency Movement Transitions into an Independent Association


ABB and Alfa Laval Spearhead Governance Transformation of Energy Efficiency Movement

Founding Members Elect Executive Committee

Change to Further Drive Movement’s Growth

The Energy Efficiency Movement (EEM), a pioneer in industry-wide energy efficiency practices since 2021, today announced its governance transformation. The Movement is now organized as a non-profit association registered in Zurich, Switzerland. With over 500 organizations pledging their commitment, publishing relevant whitepapers such as “The Case for Industrial Energy Efficiency” and participating in dozens of events worldwide, the EEM has proven its relevance. Therefore, the new governance model emerged as a natural step to further develop the Movement. The change in legal status will not detract from its core objective: to promote the use of energy-efficient solutions and technologies to save energy, reduce costs, and CO2 emissions. The EEM operates on a non-commercial basis.

As part of this transformation, the founding members, ABB and Alfa Laval, have elected the following individuals to the Executive Committee of the EEM Association:

  • Thomas Møller, President of the Energy Division, Executive Vice President of Alfa Laval
  • Tarak Mehta, President of the Business Area Motion, ABB
  • Prof. Johann W. Kolar, Director, Power Electronic Systems Laboratory, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH)

Mike Umiker, who joined the EEM in June 2023, will continue to serve as the Managing Director of the Energy Efficiency Movement Association.

“Today marks a significant milestone for the Movement. After launching the initiative in 2021, we are incredibly proud of the rapid success and momentum gained by the Energy Efficiency Movement (EEM). It has been remarkable to witness the swift and growing mobilization within and outside our organization, including industry competitors, for a greater purpose. I am excited to continue the journey as a member of the Executive Committee, and I encourage other business leaders to commit to energy efficiency today by joining the EEM,” states Tarak Mehta, President of ABB’s Motion business area.

“Energy efficiency is crucial to achieving the Paris Agreement and COP28 goals of doubling the global rate of energy efficiency improvement by 2030 to reach net zero. Industry plays a key role. According to the IEA, 50% of the current energy-saving potential lies in the industrial sector, and increasing energy efficiency could account for over 40% of emissions reductions in the next 20 years. Collaboration is vital, and that’s why the Energy Efficiency Movement is a very important platform where the entire value chain can come together to accelerate these actions. Alfa Laval’s contribution to the Movement is anchored in a century of energy efficiency experience. Together with our partners, we can help further accelerate the transition,” adds Thomas Møller, President of Alfa Laval’s Energy Division.

“I have always been convinced that the Energy Efficiency Movement (EEM) has the potential to become a relevant industry voice on this important topic of energy transition. I am honored to be part of the EEM Executive Committee and will bring the academic perspective, which forms the intellectual foundation for transformative change,” concludes Prof. Dr. Johann W. Kolar, Director of the Power Electronic Systems Laboratory, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH).