Swansea University’s Centre for Integrative Semiconductor Materials (CISM) is a partner in the new SAFEPOWER project, which aims to transform energy systems by creating new Medium-Voltage Direct Current (MVDC) converters, designed to be small, eco-friendly, secure, and competitive to create a cleaner and more energy-efficient future.
MVDC converters are integral to renewable energy systems such as offshore wind and solar farms, electric vehicle fast charging and data centres for high performance computing.
The SAFEPOWER project uses the latest digital and power conversion technologies, to make MVDC converters more efficient, reliable, and powerful, while also reducing their environmental and economic impact.
CISM will utilise its state-of-the-art chip manufacturing pilot line to demonstrate next generation power chips based on wide bandgap materials such as silicon carbide and gallium oxide. The idea is to demonstrate this technology at scale so that processes developed in CISM will be easily transferrable into a high-volume manufacturing facility.
Key innovations of the SAFEPOWER project include
- Advanced materials: The project uses special materials to make power devices that are both efficient and affordable.
- Next-generation power components: SAFEPOWER is creating strong and efficient parts like power switches, diodes, and circuit breakers to support modern energy systems.
- Sustainable solutions: The project focuses on eco-friendly and cost-effective designs to minimize the environmental impact of power systems.
- Enhanced reliability: By using advanced monitoring techniques and artificial intelligence, SAFEPOWER ensures that energy systems are reliable, can predict issues, and last longer.
SAFEPOWER will help increase the use of renewable energy, especially solar power, making energy systems more reliable and affordable. This will support the UK and Europe's move towards a climate-friendly and sustainable economy.
Xavier Perpinyà, scientific leader for SAFEPOWER said:
"SAFEPOWER is a vital step toward creating a future where energy systems are not only more efficient but also more aligned with societal needs for sustainability and resilience. Our project reflects the UK and Europe’s commitment to leading the development of green technologies."
SAFEPOWER aims to make MVDC converters the top choice for green, secure, and competitive energy solutions. This will help the UK and Europe to become more independent in energy technology and strengthen its leadership in digital and advanced technologies.
Professor Mike Jennings said:
“The move to a net zero society means efficient power management of renewable energy from where it is generated into the home. Efficient semiconductors developed in CISM enable power management of these renewable energy systems. The same technology is underpinning for electric vehicles, industrial drives, impacting on wider sections of our society such as more electric aircraft and energy-efficient data centres.”
The €4.3m project is funded by Horizon Europe and Swansea University is one of ten partners from the UK, Spain, France, Italy and Latvia.