Power Conversion Semiconductor and Circuit Trends and Challenges for a Sustainable Energy Future

To meet total global energy requirements with zero or reduced carbon emissions will necessarily result in a dramatic increase in the use of high efficiency power conversion technology. This work will outline the role that latest power semiconductor technologies and circuits play in achieving such a sustainable energy future. Several relevant example applications will be considered; this will include the use of silicon carbide (SiC) and gallium nitride (GaN) based devices and related circuit topologies in applications such as electric vehicles, datacenters and for battery sourced off peak electricity supply. Barriers to the rate of adoption is briefly considered. Looking forward, future advances in device technology are discussed with up to date information.