Honeywell Launches AI Platform for Autonomous Control Room Operations at Borouge Facility

Honeywell has introduced Experion Cognition, an AI-enabled control system platform designed to automate decision-making and process management in industrial control rooms. The technology was demonstrated in a live proof-of-concept at Borouge Group International AG's Ruwais facility in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

The platform is designed to detect and respond to abnormal process conditions before they escalate, reducing operational errors and downtime. It works by deploying AI agents that manage anomalies on behalf of control room operators, with the aim of improving plant efficiency and safety.

Honeywell said that in multiple pilots, Experion Cognition was able to generate predictive alerts an average of five to ten minutes ahead of alarm incidents. The system is built as part of Honeywell's Experion PKS distributed control system network and is intended to integrate into existing control room setups without significant infrastructure changes.

Jim Masso, President and CEO of Honeywell Process Automation, said the platform moves autonomous control room operations from concept to practice. He noted that AI-powered agents actively managing process abnormalities can help operators achieve more consistent results.

Dr. Hasan Karam, Chief Operating Officer of Borouge International, described the deployment as part of the company's broader AI, Digitalization and Technology programme. He said the initiative is aimed at improving efficiency, upskilling personnel, and strengthening long-term competitiveness. Borouge International has indicated it will continue work to assess the potential to scale the technology across its Ruwais complex and other global facilities.

Honeywell also pointed to a wider industry challenge the platform is designed to address: as experienced operators retire, the automation of process and situation management could help bridge the skills gap by enabling less experienced staff to operate plants at a level comparable to veterans.

Experion Cognition is scheduled for commercial availability in the third quarter of 2026.