Five global trends reshaping building automation

Building Insights

4 min read

April 02, 2026

Buildings account for approximately 40% of global emissions
76% of organizations plan to use AI for workplace operations and maintenance in 2025
68% of US office buildings were built before 2000; aging infrastructure will require retrofitting

Building automation is entering a period of rapid transformation. Rising energy costs, stricter regulations, aging infrastructure and workforce shortages are forcing organizations to rethink how they operate. The Future of BAS white paper explores five global trends reshaping building performance, and what leaders can do now to stay at the forefront.

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"With intuitive user interfaces, automated workflows, predictive analytics and integrated building insights, future BAS platforms can help emerging professionals excel in connected environments."

Kaishi Zhang
Vice President of Product Management, Building Automation Systems and Controls, Johnson Controls

5 Global Trends to Watch

1. Intelligent systems

Building automation is shifting to intelligent, integrated platforms. Next-generation BAS connects HVAC, lighting, security and fire systems into one ecosystem, improving performance and reducing complexity.

2. Decarbonization and energy efficiency

With buildings contributing roughly 40% of global emissions, BAS is critical to decarbonization and energy efficiency by automating optimization and supporting compliance across regions. AI-enabled BAS accelerates real-time energy insight and predictive optimization.

3. Occupant wellbeing

Expectations for health and comfort continue to rise. BAS supports wellbeing through real-time monitoring of lighting, temperature and air quality, all of which are particularly relevant in mission-critical environments including data centers and healthcare.

4. Workforce futureproofing

As experienced professionals retire, BAS helps close gaps by reducing manual tasks, simplifying workflows and enabling smaller teams to manage complex facility environments. AI-driven automation allows teams to do more with fewer resources.

5. Retrofitting aging facilities

Buildings worldwide rely on legacy systems. Intelligent BAS platforms support retrofits by integrating with existing infrastructure, enabling modernization and extending asset life while minimizing costs and disruptions.

“Innovations in plug-and play BAS platforms are reducing integration and commissioning costs, making intelligent building technology more accessible.”

James Burke
VP of Product and Lifecycle Solutions

92% of leaders plan to invest in Generative AI in the next three years, with only 1% so far believing they have reached maturity

64% of businesses say rising energy costs are impacting their ability to be competitive

BAS is already a major lever for performance, reducing operational costs that account for roughly 80% of a building’s lifecycle costs

Building automation is evolving toward autonomous operations and AI-driven decision making. Across the trends, one message is clear: organizations that align BAS, data and automation today will be better positioned to accelerate decarbonization and energy efficiency, improve resilience and future-proof their buildings for what’s next.

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FAQs

What exactly is a building automation system (BAS)?
A building automation system (BAS) is the technology that controls and monitors building systems – e.g., HVAC, lighting, energy management, security – to keep spaces safe and comfortable. BAS platforms use controllers, sensors and software to help automate routine operations and provide visibility into systems and equipment performance.

How is AI changing the way a BAS works?
AI allows buildings to adapt, learn and self-optimize. It can predict occupancy patterns, adjust HVAC parameters, detect equipment faults and identify opportunities for energy savings, helping facility teams make more effective decisions.

How does a BAS help support sustainability goals and reduce energy costs?
A BAS helps reduce energy waste by optimizing equipment operation, monitoring usage and automating efficient control strategies. Smart dashboards allow facility teams to track energy use and find opportunities to reduce waste. BAS also plays a major role in helping organizations comply with decarbonization standards.