Open Technology and Collaboration at the Heart of Ernströmgruppen's New Headquarters

When Ernströmgruppen set out to transform its historic Gothenburg, Sweden premises into modern headquarters, it was only natural for a company focused on innovation and sustainability to seek a building automation solution that would maximize energy efficiency.

Fortunately, they didn’t have to look far — the industrial group includes two capable experts in the field: Ouman and Elektrokyl Energiteknik.  By combining Ouman’s technology with Elektrokyl Energiteknik’s installation expertise, the project became a true collaboration between industry specialists.

Project Background.

The 600 m² building on Brogatan Street in Gothenburg dates back to 1850 and has been part of Ernströmgruppen’s story since the 1920s, when it was used as a warehouse. Now fully renovated, it functions as a modern office. Building automation keeps operations efficient and maintains a steady indoor climate for employees. By supporting optimal conditions and proactive maintenance, the system helps extend the building’s long lifecycle and preserve its value.

Flexible Control.

The project provided a comprehensive solution for controlling the building’s heating, ventilation, and cooling (HVAC) systems. At the center of the solution is Ouman’s new freely programmable Ouflex AX controller, which gives contractors flexibility in both system design and implementation. With open communication through Modbus and built-in M-Bus Master support, the controller can connect not only Ouman’s own field devices but also third-party equipment and meters. This gives system integrators room to design systems that fit each project—using both new and existing devices, including products from manufacturers like IVT, Lindab, Mitsubishi, Regin, and Siemens.

In this project, Ouflex AX collects data from third-party energy, water, and electrical meters and brings it into Ouman’s cloud-based software platform, Ounet. Through Ounet, facility managers can monitor operations, manage alarms, and analyze trends across connected systems, supporting day-to-day operation and proactive maintenance.

Together, Ouflex AX and Ounet provide clear visibility and reliable control of the building’s HVAC systems. For Elektrokyl Energiteknik, the controller's flexibility enabled the design of an integrated solution that meets the building’s needs today while leaving room for future adjustments. “The technical solution for this location is of a highly advanced level and enables great flexibility. With a connected system and accessible settings, it allows our customers to operate the building with efficient maintenance and energy use,” says Anders Johanson from Elektrokyl Energiteknik.

Support in Practice.

Ouman focuses not only on product quality but also on supporting contractors, end users, property owners, and facility managers throughout projects and after. Support is available remotely or on-site when needed.

At Ernströmgruppen’s headquarters, contractor Elektrokyl Energiteknik was responsible for installing and commissioning the control systems. Their work included configuring Ouman’s equipment, optimizing performance, and testing to ensure everything worked as intended. When hurdles arose, Ouman’s Swedish technical support team was ready to assist. Anders Johanson emphasizes, "This partnership was characterized by strong service orientation and genuine collaboration."

“If our clients have any problems integrating Ouman products, we go and help them fix it, even on-site. This is not standard across the industry, but for us, it is quite normal,”- Johan Kidron, Building Automation Technical Support Specialist at Ouman.

For Ernströmgruppen, the project has delivered what they set out to achieve: a more sustainable building with a stable, comfortable indoor environment for employees. Open, well-integrated systems make everyday operations easier while providing facility managers with the data they need to optimize performance over time.

Ouman operates in Sweden with a local team ready to support you. If you are a property owner, facility manager, or contractor interested in discussing a similar solution or collaboration, don't hesitate to get in touch with the team at info@ouman.se