I-Corps: Translation Potential of High-Voltage Power Electronics Building Blocks

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $50,000 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

The significance of this I-Corps project is based on the translation from lab to market of high-voltage, silicon-carbide (SiC)-based, multilevel power electronics building blocks (PEBBs) — a technology with the potential to modernize critical energy and propulsion systems. Power electronics refers to the branch of electrical engineering that deals with the conversion, control, and management of electrical power using semiconductor devices such as diodes, transistors, and silicon-carbide (SiC) components. These systems enable efficient power conversion across different voltage and current levels, making them essential for modern energy applications. The U.S. faces urgent challenges in upgrading its aging power grid, integrating new energy sources, and accelerating electrification in aerospace and space power systems. The impact of this technology extends beyond engineering innovation; it supports a more efficient and resilient energy infrastructure, fostering economic growth and technological leadership in the U.S. power and electrification industry. This project investigates the commercialization of a class of high-voltage, silicon-carbide (SiC)-based, multilevel power electronics building blocks (PEBBs). The PEBB is a generic block that can be connected to form a class of modular and scalable high-voltage and high-power converters capable of performing any conversion type, alternating current (AC) - direct current (DC), DC-AC, DC-DC, and AC-. The PEBB uses a neutral-point

Key facts

NSF award ID
2619114
Awardee
Michigan State University (MI)
SAM.gov UEI
R28EKN92ZTZ9
PI
Omid Beik
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
Other Energy Research
Estimated total
$50,000
Funds obligated
$50,000
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
10/01/2025 → 05/31/2027