Johnson Controls Recognized on Fortune's 2025 Change the World List for Innovative Data Center Solutions
In a significant achievement, Johnson Controls has secured its place on Fortune's 2025 Change the World list, underscoring its groundbreaking advancements in thermal management for data centers. This recognition is largely attributed to their innovative YORK® YVAM Air-Cooled Magnetic Bearing Chiller, specifically designed to meet the cooling demands of hyperscale and AI-driven data centers.
Data centers represent one of the most crucial components in our digital economy, serving as the backbone for countless online services and applications. However, they also account for a substantial percentage of global energy consumption, primarily due to the immense power required for cooling systems. Johnson Controls aims to revolutionize this aspect with its YVAM chiller, which boasts state-of-the-art technology that significantly reduces both energy consumption and environmental impact. The chiller uses 40% less energy annually without compromising on performance, thus providing the necessary cooling for today’s high-performance chips while simultaneously reducing overall energy costs.
One of the most remarkable features of the YVAM is its zero water consumption on-site, a crucial aspect given the rising global concern over water scarcity. Traditional cooling methods can utilize millions of gallons of water daily and contribute to excessive waste. By eliminating this necessity, the YORK YVAM aligns with modern sustainability goals, positioning data centers as responsible stewards of natural resources. Moreover, its innovative design ensures that noise pollution is greatly diminished, operating as quietly as normal background music at 65 decibels from a distance of 10 meters. This thoughtful approach not only meets industrial needs but also addresses community concerns, thus weaving sustainability into the fabric of urban living.
Johnson Controls' commitment extends beyond just technology adoption. The company has engaged in transformative investments in thermal management solutions, establishing a state-of-the-art Advanced Development Engineering Center (JADEC). This facility is dedicated to advancing the performance capabilities of chillers, air handlers, and other essential subcomponents, ensuring that they continue to evolve in the face of growing energy and environmental challenges.
This honor marks the third time Johnson Controls has made it onto Fortune's Change the World list, showcasing a track record of innovation and responsibility. Previously, the company earned accolades in 2023 for its heat pump technology, which has proven to slash operational costs by over 50%, alongside a 60% reduction in carbon emissions. Furthermore, in 2022, the firm was recognized for its OpenBlue smart building platform, demonstrating a commitment to converting buildings into efficient, adaptable assets rather than economic burdens.
CEO Joakim Weidemanis emphasized the importance of innovation in achieving both operational efficiency and sustainability within the data center sector. "As AI reshapes the world, data centers are increasingly vital to modern life and economic growth," he noted. "Addressing the energy and carbon footprint from these facilities presents both challenges and tremendous opportunities. By minimizing cooling energy use, we enhance capacity for AI workloads, ultimately facilitating an AI-driven transformation of society."
Looking ahead, Johnson Controls is poised to continue leading the charge in sustainable building solutions, reinforcing its role as a pivotal player in the ever-evolving landscape of technology and environmental responsibility. Discover more about Johnson Controls and its innovations at johnsoncontrols.com.