As data centers are predicted to account for up to 12% of the electricity consumption in the U.S. by 2028, it’s evident that technology firms are seeking energy from a variety of sources—including nuclear, renewables, and others. However, the type of electricity generated by solar energy differs significantly from that produced by nuclear facilities, posing challenges in integrating diverse energy sources.
“Currently, we have approximately 90 gigawatts of data centers worldwide in 2023, and this is expected to surpass 185 gigawatts by 2028, which is just around the corner,” stated Gary Lawrence, CEO of Amperesand, during an interview with TechCrunch.
Today’s transformers, which are responsible for converting electricity from one form to another, are capable of handling the demands. Nevertheless, Amperesand believes that its innovative technology can enhance efficiency and performance.
Essentially, Amperesand’s technology substitutes the traditional iron cores of old transformers with silicon carbide. While existing transformers operate on a design that has been effective for over a century, they exhibit various limitations. For instance, they struggle to manage voltage and frequency fluctuations and need to be specifically designed for the type of electricity they are intended to transform.
Transformers built using solid-state technology and silicon carbide offer a promising alternative. “Our solid-state transformer platform features a modular, multi-port design,” explained Brian Dow, Amperesand’s new chief product officer.
“We can generate different AC phases, facilitate AC to AC, and AC to DC conversions. This allows for the native integration of DC sources, such as photovoltaic solar systems and batteries. Additionally, it can connect seamlessly with turbines and small modular reactors, enabling smooth transitions in the event of grid issues, ensuring backup and restoration capabilities.”
Amperesand is in the midst of raising a Series A funding round after successfully securing a $12.5 million seed round last year, as the company revealed exclusively to TechCrunch. “We just initiated a Series A, and it’s progressing rapidly,” remarked Phil Inagaki, managing partner at Temasek’s Xora Innovation. The firm is not only focusing on data centers but also targeting EV charging and grid solutions, leveraging the software-friendly nature of solid-state technology. Last year, it showcased a 6-megawatt transformer.
Xora played a crucial role in incubating Amperesand, with Inagaki guiding the startup through its initial stages. With funding secured and a solid strategy established, he has recently transitioned leadership to a new team, which includes Lawrence, Dow, and Tommy Joyner, the new chief technology officer.
The Singapore-based startup is also working to establish a U.S. office to better engage with the significant market and attract local talent. Dow and Joyner both previously held positions at Tesla and Generac.
“The U.S. still holds a wealth of exceptional talent that we aim to leverage,” said Inagaki. “While we have some talent in Singapore, we won’t achieve growth as rapidly there. Hence, attracting talent has been a major consideration.”
Compiled by Techarena.au.
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