RISE invests heavily in next-generation power electronics
23 January 2026, 11:32
To strengthen Swedish and European competitiveness in the next generation of power electronics, RISE is now investing in semiconductor technology with silicon carbide (SiC). Through an acquisition of advanced SiC epitaxy equipment in Kista, Sweden, RISE becomes a world leader in power semiconductors.
The new equipment enables tailor-made SiC Epitaxy, where a crystal layer grows on top of a substrate with the same crystal structure. The technology is crucial for the development of high-performance and energy-efficient power electronics and constitutes a critical component of Europe's ambition to achieve technological sovereignty in the semiconductor sector.
– Thanks to the new equipment, we will become a world leader, which strengthens our ability to develop advanced solutions for power components and contributes to digitalization, electrification and the green transition in Sweden and Europe, says Paul Halle Zahl Pedersen, SVP and Head of the Digital Systems Division at RISE.
The SiC material is used in power grids, transports, industrial systems, electronics production and defence, and is considered strategically important because the technology is central to the EU's and Sweden's long-term technological sovereignty, supply capacity and innovative power.
– For Sweden and the business community, the investment means that we strengthen national expertise in high-tech semiconductor production, create new opportunities for Swedish companies to participate in advanced supply chains, and ensure long-term competitiveness and innovation power in a globally strategic sector, says Paul Halle Zahl Pedersen, SVP and Head of the Digital Systems Division at RISE.
– New and innovative power semiconductors are crucial for a sustainable, competitive, digitalized and electrified society. By developing the next generation of SiC technology, we can strengthen both Sweden's and Europe's technological leadership and create long-term growth. This investment gives us the opportunity to actively contribute to that, says Björn Samel, VP and Head of Smart Hardware at RISE.
The integration of the new equipment into RISE existing structure creates synergies with ongoing research programs and industry collaborations, further positioning Sweden and Europe as competitive players in the global semiconductor market.
Press contact:
Niklas Jälevik, Press Officer at RISE, niklas.jalevik@ri.se