Hyperscale Power is the latest startup to challenge 140-year-old transformer tech

The article discusses the emergence of Hyperscale Power, a startup developing advanced solid state transformers (SSTs) to replace the traditional iron-core transformers that have powered electrical grids and data centers for over 140 years. While iron-core transformers are reliable, their bulky size and limitations are becoming problematic as data center power demands surge, especially with the rise of AI workloads and renewable energy integration. Solid state transformers offer significant advantages, including reducing component counts, improving grid stability, and shrinking the physical footprint of power conversion equipment. Hyperscale Power claims its technology can operate at much higher frequencies than competitors, enabling even smaller and more efficient transformers suited for the increasing power densities in modern data centers. Hyperscale Power recently raised a €5 million seed round led by World Fund and Vsquared Ventures to build a prototype. Although the SST market has rapidly grown with over $330 million raised by competitors backed by major investors like ABB and Andreessen Horowitz, Hyperscale’s founders bring deep technical expertise,