Can you give us an overview of ABB and highlight some of the company’s achievements in the past year?

ABB is a multinational corporation with four divisions: power automation, motion, electrification, and robotics & discrete automation. ABB Oman operates three out of these four divisions. Over the past three years, a major highlight for ABB has been its focus on digitalization. ABB is a pioneer in digitalization and sustainability solutions, aiming to drive the industry towards achieving net-zero emissions in line with its sustainability strategy. In 2021, ABB made data-driven decisions in real-time public operations to maximize resource efficiency and contribute to a low-carbon future. Another significant highlight was the growth of e-mobility and e-charging, which is a prominent trend in Oman. ABB targets digitalization and renewable energy sectors, particularly power automation companies, including those in the oil and gas industry. By leveraging digitalization and sustainable solutions, ABB aims to maximize energy efficiency, reduce CO2 emissions, and achieve a zero-carbon future. Automation plays a key role in reducing costs, increasing time efficiency, and lowering both capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX), ultimately driving profitability. The core idea behind automation, renewable energy, and digitalization is to minimize capital and operational costs.

How would you characterize the Omani market in terms of renewable energy and digitalization?

Compared to the global drive, Oman’s progress in renewable energy and digitalization has been gradual but steady. Like many companies, ABB is also moving towards e-mobility and energy-efficient solutions. However, there is a need for more transparency regarding tariffs to align with the current trends and direction. Currently, there is hesitancy in Oman’s market, and we are not in an accelerated mode. ABB believes that working together with the government, there is an opportunity to address this and drive progress in renewable energy and digitalization.

How important is it for ABB to promote local talent and develop human resources?

Promoting local talent and developing human resources are crucial elements for ABB. The company has adopted an Omanization policy, aiming for a 35% Omanization target in the industry, and ABB is already well ahead of that goal. ABB Oman has a talented team of Omanis, including an increasing number of women. ABB’s strategy is to support the growth of talented women in the industry. While there are challenges in attracting and retaining talent, ABB provides training, competitive compensation packages, and opportunities for overseas job training, empowering employees to work independently. Collaboration between ABB and the government is essential in this process.

What are ABB’s competitive advantages that differentiate it from its competitors?

ABB has several competitive advantages that set it apart from its competitors. Firstly, ABB has a vast install base and a strong presence in around 100 countries, making it reliable and adaptable to future changes and trends. The company embraces current trends such as digitalization, robotics, automation, and marine vessels, and is well-prepared to meet future demands. ABB is not limited to traditional working methods and has a rich heritage of innovative technologies, including collaborative robotics, motors and drives, and small circuits for high currents. Moreover, ABB’s focus on sustainable growth and sustainability aligns closely with its operations in Oman. In the short term, ABB aims to maintain sustainability to retain Omani and expat talents. Collaborating with the government, ABB strives to contribute to a low-carbon future for the world.

How does ABB embed sustainability in its business strategy, and what initiatives are you undertaking to promote sustainability and environmental friendliness in society and the industry?

Sustainability is a key element of ABB’s 2030 strategies, and the company has set targets aligned with its sustainability objectives. ABB’s governance framework is at the core of its business strategy, emphasizing integrity and transparency among employees, customers, and suppliers. ABB is committed to sustainability and a low-carbon future, and this remains its main focus. The company works with suppliers and customers who align with its value chain to ensure sustainable and reliable practices. ABB recognizes the importance of providing a low-carbon future and actively contributes to achieving it.