US Awards I-Pulse $250 Million to Develop Silicon Carbide Semiconductors for Geothermal and Defense Applications

The U.S. Department of Commerce has awarded $250 million to I-Pulse under the CHIPS Research and Development program to advance high-performance silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductor technology. This investment aims to strengthen domestic production of chips capable of operating in extreme environments, specifically targeting geothermal drilling, mining, and national defense. By fostering innovation in pulsed power and high-voltage switches, the initiative seeks to reduce reliance on foreign-made semiconductors while supporting the energy needs of data centers and industrial facilities.

The $250 million award, announced by Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, focuses on the development of advanced silicon carbide semiconductor components and pulsed power technologies. These high-temperature, high-performance chips are designed for commercialization as high-voltage, high-current solid-state switches that can withstand the extreme conditions found in industrial and military settings. I-Pulse is collaborating with U.S. national laboratories, universities, and specialized manufacturers to bring these components to market, aligning with the CHIPS program's broader goal of expanding domestic research and manufacturing capabilities.

A primary application for these semiconductors is I-Pulse’s proprietary pulsed power drilling platform, which aims to unlock geothermal energy from deep granite formations. The technology uses powerful electrical pulses to fracture and soften rock ahead of a drill bit, significantly increasing drilling speed and extending equipment life. By lowering these operational costs, the company believes geothermal power can become a commercially viable, continuous electricity source for power-intensive sectors like data centers, which currently rely heavily on intermittent renewables or traditional grids.

Beyond energy, the silicon carbide switches are slated for use in underground mining, rock crushing, and defense systems that require resilience against extreme temperatures and shocks. The research and development will be centered at I-Pulse’s Albuquerque facility, strategically located near Sandia National Laboratories to leverage long-standing expertise in pulsed power. Dr. Rick Spielman, President of I-Pulse Albuquerque, noted that while pulsed power was originally developed for weapons simulation in the 1960s, this funding will help transition the technology into breakthrough products for the civilian and industrial sectors.