High voltage power electronics allow precise and rapid switching of electric power to support long distance transmission. This speed and precision will allow the system to respond to disturbances and operate with lower margins and fewer constraints, thereby reducing the need for additional infrastructure.
One of the most basic power system devices is the switch. A top priority technology need is for power electronics switches with the capability for high voltage, high speed, with little or no cooling requirements, and a favorable cost-to-value relationship. New approaches or materials (silicon, carbide, or diamond) that are not currently used today in power electronics will be needed. Working in this voltage and current domain will require more research into the properties and suitability of advanced materials. There is interest in going beyond silicon to explore new materials. Diamonds and silicon-carbide are promising materials for use in power electronics. ORNL has capabilities and expertise in power electronics design, thermal management, wide band gap materials, and high temperature packaging.
Power Electronics for Distributed Energy Systems and Transmission and Distribution Applications (PDF 4.05MB)
