University of Colorado Boulder Secures $1.5 Million for Power Electronics Research
Boulder, Friday, 12 September 2025.
Researchers aim to innovate energy technologies, enhancing efficiency and sustainability through a major grant.
Innovative Research in Power Electronics
The University of Colorado Boulder has been awarded a $1.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) to spearhead advancements in power electronics. This initiative, led by Associate Professor Luca Corradini, is focused on developing a Universal AC-DC Electrical Power Mover (UPM). The UPM, designed as a modular and versatile ‘brick,’ is intended to revolutionize the integration of electricity conversion technologies across various applications, including electric vehicle (EV) charging, solar power, and AI data centers [1].
Technical Specifications and Efficiency Gains
The UPM’s modular design simplifies installation and supports diverse power grid connections throughout the United States. It features bi-directional capabilities, allowing energy flow both from the grid to vehicles and from renewable sources like solar panels back into the grid. This flexibility is particularly beneficial in rural or underserved regions. By leveraging the ARPA-E funding, researchers aim to extensively prototype the UPM technology, focusing on improving energy efficiency and reducing costs across the design, deployment, and maintenance stages [1].
Global Perspectives on Power Electronics
Globally, advancements in power electronics are also being driven by the development of high-frequency magnetic materials and measurement systems. For instance, researchers at the Tokyo University of Science have created a wide-band, high-sensitivity Magnetic Barkhausen noise (MBN) measurement system. This system provides insights into excess eddy current losses in soft magnetic materials, which are crucial for enhancing the efficiency of high-frequency power electronics [2].
Future Implications and Sustainability
The investment in power electronics at the University of Colorado Boulder reflects a broader trend in prioritizing sustainability and efficiency in energy systems. As energy demands grow, the development of technologies like the UPM is critical for achieving sustainable energy solutions. The collaboration and research efforts underway not only aim to tackle current energy challenges but also pave the way for future innovations in the field [1].