IEEE Highlights Pioneering Power Electronics Research in June 2025 Newsletter

2025-06-13 power

New York, Friday, 13 June 2025.
The IEEE Power Electronics Society’s latest newsletter discusses pivotal advancements, impacting European market transformations in practical and theoretical frameworks of power electronics applications.

Transformative Silicon Carbide Implementations

The IEEE Power Electronics Society’s newsletter illuminates significant advancements in power electronics, notably the implementation of Silicon Carbide (SiC) semiconductors. SiC technology is rapidly becoming integral in automotive powertrains, as seen in the Volkswagen APP350 platform, which utilizes SiC MOSFETs to achieve impressive efficiencies of 97-99% at inverter switching frequencies exceeding 100 kHz [2]. Despite SiC module costs being 250% to 400% higher than traditional silicon IGBTs, experts like Dr. Henning Wöhl-Brunn emphasize SiC’s role as a strategic enabler in achieving high efficiency targets [2].

Wide Bandgap Semiconductors’ Market Penetration

Wide Bandgap (WBG) semiconductors, which include SiC and Gallium Nitride (GaN), are just beginning to penetrate mass markets within the automotive industry. BorgWarner’s exploration of 1200 V SiC modules highlights the growing adoption of these technologies, although challenges remain for using GaN in certain applications. These advancements signify a shift toward more efficient power electronics components, which are crucial as automotive manufacturers aim for superior efficiency and performance in electric vehicles [2].

The Evolution of Power Electronics Industry Standards

The newsletter not only focuses on technological advancements but also addresses evolving industry standards and compliance measures necessary for the integration of new technologies within existing systems. Such standards are vital for ensuring compatibility and safety in power electronics applications across different industries [1]. This highlights the dynamic nature of the field, requiring continuous updates and adaptability from both engineers and policymakers.

Power Electronics in Academic Contexts

In academia, the focus remains on preparing future professionals to meet industry demands. Institutions like San José State University and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute incorporate advanced power electronics courses in their curricula [4][6]. These courses cover essential topics like AC/DC conversion, DC/DC conversion, and the application of power semiconductor devices. Such educational endeavors ensure that new generations of engineers are well-equipped with the latest knowledge and skills required to innovate in the power electronics field [6].

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