1. ABB is a global leader in industrial automation and electrification. From your perspective, what are the main challenges facing the Spanish metals sector in terms of energy efficiency?

The main challenge comes from regulatory pressure, forcing European metals manufacturers to make advances in decarbonization and energy efficiency much faster than other regions. The EU imposes ambitious emission reduction and efficiency targets, though European producers compete with countries where regulations are much less demanding and energy is cheaper. This creates a clear competitive disadvantage, leading to a risk of offshoring and loss of market share to imports that do not meet the same environmental standards.

2. Regulatory pressure and energy costs are driving the adoption of more sustainable technologies. What concrete solutions is ABB offering to help metals plants reduce their energy consumption without compromising productivity?

At ABB, we offer a comprehensive digital portfolio for metals. Among the most notable solutions are:

• ABB Ability™ Manufacturing Operations Management for metals: Comprehensive operations management, from order entry to final quality.
• ABB Ability™ Smart Melt Shop: Intelligent optimization of the steel mill, integrating real-time data to improve energy efficiency and quality.
• ABB Ability™ Data Analytics Platform for metals: Advanced data analytics to identify inefficiencies and improvement opportunities throughout the plant.
• ABB Ability™ Expert Optimizer for metals: Advanced process control (APC) that acts as an “autopilot” to stabilize and optimize operations, reducing both energy consumption and emissions.
• Roll@xA: Digital twin for rolling mills, allowing simulation and process adjustments before implementation.
• ABB Ability™ Asset Performance Management: Predictive monitoring of critical assets to anticipate failures and avoid unplanned downtime.
• Cybersecurity and remote monitoring solutions: To ensure operational continuity and security.

These solutions are complemented by ABB Ability™ Energy Management System (EMS) for maximizing sustainability and energy cost savings, artificial intelligence for smarter operations, machine learning for quality control, and digital transformation consulting for tailored implementation.

3. In the context of accelerated decarbonization, many companies must modernize facilities that have been operating for decades. How can digitalization, such as advanced control systems or digital twins, contribute towards transitioning to more sustainable processes?

Digitalization is a key enabler on the journey to sustainable metals production. Digital twins allow simulation and optimization without disrupting actual production, reducing risks and boosting efficiency. Advanced process control and data analytics help manufacturers make informed decisions, optimize resource use and reduce carbon footprints. At ABB, integrating these technologies is already helping clients meet regulatory and sustainability goals.

4. One of the major challenges for the metal industry is balancing sustainability with profitability. How does ABB address this balance in its projects with sector clients?

Our approach is to demonstrate that sustainability and profitability go hand in hand. We work with clients to identify opportunities for energy savings and emission reductions that lead to lower operating costs and greater resilience. The key is to adapt solutions to the reality of each plant and support the client throughout the transformation process.

5. What role do alliances and collaboration between manufacturers, technology integrators, and research centers play in developing efficient and competitive solutions?

Collaboration is fundamental. At ABB, we participate in R&D projects such as OPTISTEEL alongside technology centers and industrial clients to develop sustainability and digitalization solutions. These alliances accelerate innovation and knowledge sharing, ensuring that solutions are truly useful and competitive.

6. Regarding automation and predictive maintenance, what level of maturity do you observe in Spanish metals plants? Do you think the sector is ready to move toward data-driven operation models?

Spanish plants have made significant progress in automation, but there is still room to integrate predictive models and data-driven operations. Increasingly, companies are embracing predictive maintenance and remote monitoring, and at ABB, we support this process with solutions like the digital twin and advanced analytics platforms.

7. ABB has been working for years on projects related to the circular economy and equipment lifecycle optimization. Could you share a recent example that reflects this commitment?

A clear example is the electric motor recycling project with Celsa, one of Europe’s leading steel producers, and La Farga, a major Spanish copper manufacturer, where ABB replaced obsolete motors with efficient technology and recycled up to 98% of the components, reducing the carbon footprint and promoting a more circular economy. Additionally, at Spanish steel company Siderúrgica Balboa, we have updated drive systems and applied predictive maintenance to extend equipment lifespan and reduce energy consumption.

8. Finally, how do you envision the future of the metals industry in Spain over the next ten years? What role does ABB aspire to play in this evolution?

I envision an industry that is increasingly digital, sustainable, and interconnected, with decarbonization and energy efficiency driving progress. ABB aims to be the trusted technology partner, supporting metals manufacturers in their transformation and helping the Spanish metals industry stay at the forefront in Europe.

Conclusion

The Spanish metals industry is undergoing a major transformation, driven by European regulation and the need to be more efficient and sustainable. ABB is committed to supporting its clients on this journey, providing technology, expertise, and collaboration to ensure the industry remains competitive and a benchmark in Europe and beyond.