Project Title: CHARGED: Commercialization of Highly Accelerated Reliable Grid-Networked Energy Delivery

Location: Wauwatosa, WI

Award Amount: $12,000,000

Imagen Energy Website


ARPA-E SCALEUP 2021 Imagen Energy Thumbnail


 

Challenge

The acceleration of Electric Vehicle (EV) adoption offers a unique promise to enhance grid efficiency, mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and reinforce U.S. energy objectives. Yet, a cyclic dilemma exists for consumers awaiting comprehensive EV charging infrastructures for EV adoption, while stakeholders hesitate to invest without evident EV penetration. Addressing this significant roadblock is pivotal to unlocking the vast potential of the EV landscape.

Technical Approach

Under the ARPA-E CIRCUITS program, Imagen Energy pioneered a high-power density, silicon carbide-based power conversion platform with the vision to transform EV charging. The CHARGED project seeks to optimize space, reduce installation costs, enhance charging efficiency, and ensure scalability for impending DC Fast Charging needs. This innovative approach not only elevates power density but also decouples AC/DC rectification from isolated DC/DC conversion, fostering adaptable and affordable installations. With ARPA-E's backing, this technology is primed to scale from 100 kW to megawatt.

Team

The CHARGED project team combines expertise from the forefront of the EV industry. Led by Imagen Energy, focused on developing compact and efficient power converters; we've established a direct partnership with ABB E-mobility for Megawatt transportation charging R&D and demonstration of Imagen’s technologies. In parallel, our collaboration with Volta Charging, a leading charge point operator, reinforces our commitment to efficient and widespread commercialization. Together, our collective skills address the current and future demands of the EV charging landscape.

ARPA-E Mission Alignment

The CHARGED project directly supports ARPA-E's mission by propelling the U.S. towards greater energy independence through the advancement of electric vehicle (EV) adoption. This reduces our reliance on energy imports and diminishes energy-related emissions, notably greenhouse gases. By optimizing and scaling up EV charging, we are not only promoting a cleaner energy sector but also ensuring our infrastructure's resilience in producing, delivering, and storing energy. In collaboration with industry leaders, CHARGED emphasizes domestic development and deployment of cutting-edge technologies, positioning the U.S. at the forefront of advanced energy innovations, and strengthening both our technological and economic leadership in this essential sector.