India initiates plan for indigenous power grid semiconductors

The Indian government has launched a consultation process to develop indigenous power semiconductors and modules for the national electricity grid. The initiative is a joint effort between the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the Ministry of Power, and the state-run utility Powergrid.

The project focuses on the design, development, and supply of silicon carbide (SiC) MOSFET-based power modules for Voltage-Sourced Converter High-Voltage Direct Current (VSC-HVDC) transmission systems. The goal is to establish end-to-end domestic capabilities, including chip design, fabrication, packaging, assembly, and system integration, to reduce reliance on imported technology for critical infrastructure.

To encourage adoption and mitigate commercial risks, the government has committed to an initial procurement of approximately 13,000 validated modules for field-testing under real-world conditions. Industry stakeholders, including startups, MSMEs, and academic institutions, can participate in the consultation process, with feedback due by October 8 and formal discussions scheduled for October 14.