Imagine the electrical grid as a highway system. Right now, we have a hard time moving power from solar panels and EV chargers because they use a different 'language' (DC) than our main grid (AC). This project builds a high-tech 'translator' using a special material called Silicon Carbide that can handle massive voltages without overheating or breaking, making the whole system smaller and cheaper.
Current electrical grids struggle to integrate renewable energy and EV chargers because there are no commercial, low-cost, and compact DC/DC converters capable of handling the jump from low voltage to medium voltage (>10kV).
The project produced 15kV SiC IGBTs and diodes, 3.3kV SiC MOSFET modules, and at least 3 Medium Frequency Transformer (MTF) demonstrator units.
If you are a DSO dealing with the instability of adding more renewable energy sources—this project developed 15kV SiC IGBT modules that allow for a more compact and efficient DC distribution infrastructure.
If you are a manufacturer dealing with bulky and expensive power converters—this project developed DC/DC converters from LV (<1500V) up to MV (>10kV) that reduce the size and complexity of the hardware.
If you are a producer dealing with the lack of commercial high-voltage DC solutions—this project developed 15kV SiC IGBTs and associated diodes that simplify converter topology and increase reliability.
Based on available project data, specific pricing is not provided, but the project explicitly targets 'low cost' and the reduction of fabrication process costs.
The project aims to demonstrate a commercial prototype that can be introduced to the market within less than 3 years after completion.
Based on available project data, there is no specific mention of licensing terms, though the project involves 4 industrial partners and 2 SMEs likely to hold or utilize the resulting IP.
The project targets a market entry window of less than 3 years following the project's end in 2026.
It provides a bridge between low voltage (<1500V) and medium voltage (>10kV) using a simplified converter topology and medium frequency transformers.
The consortium is highly balanced for commercialization, featuring a 50% industry ratio with 4 industrial partners (including 2 SMEs) and 3 universities. The collaboration spans 6 countries (CH, DE, ES, FR, SE, UK), combining academic research on material growth with industrial capacity for packaging and testing.
Contact AGENCIA ESTATAL CONSEJO SUPERIOR DE INVESTIGACIONES CIENTIFICAS in Spain
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