NC State Chancellor’s Statement on Announcement by President Obama

The following is a statement from NC State University Chancellor Randy Woodson regarding today’s on-campus announcement by President Obama that NC State will lead the new Next Generation Power Electronics National Manufacturing Innovation Institute. This $140 million initiative includes a $70 million grant from the Department of Energy (DOE) – the largest single grant in NC State history.

The new institute will be housed at NC State and include two-dozen academic, government and industry partners who pitched in to match DOE’s grant. In addition, N.C. Gov. Pat McCrory and his administration helped launch the institute by committing $10 million over the next five years.

The institute will look to develop new energy solutions through the use and evolution of a technology called wide bandgap semiconductors. This technology holds the potential to increase system efficiency, reduce the size and weight of devices, improve reliability and durability, and reduce life-cycle cost. NC State is recognized as an international leader in the research and development of wide bandgap semiconductors.

Statement from NC State Chancellor Randy Woodson:

“NC State couldn’t be more proud to have been selected to lead this new institute, which truly embodies everything that our university stands for – from our Think and Do mentality, to our collaborative spirit and unending commitment to solve to the grand challenges of society.

“There are few global challenges greater than the search for less costly, more efficient energy solutions. NC State is a world leader in finding solutions to this challenge, and the new Next Generation Power Electronics National Manufacturing Innovation Institute will greatly advance our efforts to quickly bring new technologies to the marketplace and people who need them.

“The institute holds the potential to create high-paying domestic jobs, educate the next generation of technicians and engineers, reduce our nation’s energy needs and climate footprint, and empower partners to remain at the forefront of this game-changing industry.”

Background:

NC State was selected due to the university’s recognition as the preeminent leader in wide bandgap semiconductor technology, which is critical to the future of global energy use and conservation.  The consumption of energy through power devices is projected to make up 80 percent of all electrical energy use by 2030, a staggering statistic. Such substantial use will have a tremendous impact on economic stability around the world, including a significant drain on energy, an increase in costs to consumers and industries, and potentially harmful effects on the environment.

To address this pending energy crisis, President Obama and the DOE have tapped NC State to lead the development of long-term, sustainable solutions.

For quick access to more information on the announcement, background on NC State’s expertise in this area and a variety of digital assets, please visit http://www.ncsu.edu.