New Delhi : The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Ministry of Power (MoP), and POWERGRID have launched a joint initiative to promote the indigenous design, development, qualification and pilot deployment of Silicon Carbide (SiC) MOSFET-based power modules for Voltage Source Converter (VSC)-based High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) applications.
The initiative is aimed at building domestic capabilities in advanced power semiconductor technologies and reducing dependence on imported components for strategic power-grid applications. It is being pursued under the broader framework of Atmanirbhar Bharat and the India Semiconductor Mission.
Focus on Complete Indigenous Power Semiconductor Value Chain
The programme seeks to establish capabilities across the entire power semiconductor value chain, covering device design, module engineering, fabrication, packaging, assembly, testing, qualification and system integration.
A key objective is to develop and retain core intellectual property within India while strengthening the domestic supply chain for HVDC technologies. The initiative is also expected to create a pathway for the commercialisation of indigenous power semiconductor solutions for future grid applications.
36-Month Development Programme
The development programme will have a 36-month duration, with consortium participation limited to a maximum of four partners.
Under the pilot deployment plan, POWERGRID has indicated a procurement commitment of approximately 13,000 validated power modules. The modules will undergo qualification and validation before being considered for deployment in a pilot VSC-HVDC project.
Successful demonstration of the indigenous SiC MOSFET modules in the pilot project is expected to provide a foundation for their use in subsequent HVDC projects in India.
Stakeholder Consultation Underway
A pre-RFP stakeholder consultation is currently underway to finalise the programme’s scope, technical specifications, timelines and commercial framework for the Detailed Request for Participation.
The initiative brings together the electronics and semiconductor ecosystem with India’s power-sector requirements, with the broader objective of developing domestic technology for critical grid infrastructure and strengthening India’s capabilities in advanced power electronics.
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