SiC Power Devices Offering Smaller, Lighter, and Cost-Effective Designs

 

The global silicon carbide (SiC) power device market is witnessing unprecedented growth, driven by rising demand for efficient, compact, and reliable power solutions. Valued at US$ 1.3 Bn in 2022, the market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 19.3% between 2023 and 2031, reaching US$ 6.3 Bn by 2031.

Why SiC Power Devices Are the Future

Silicon carbide has emerged as a game-changer in the semiconductor industry, especially in wide bandgap applications. Compared to traditional silicon, SiC offers:

• Higher efficiency and lower energy loss
• High-voltage and high-temperature performance
• Compact, lightweight design
• Reduced total system cost

These attributes make SiC ideal for applications ranging from electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy systems to aerospace and industrial power supplies. By enabling more efficient energy conversion, SiC power devices also contribute to global sustainability goals by lowering fossil fuel dependency.

Key Market Drivers

1. Rising Need for Reliable Power Systems

Industries such as industrial motor drives, UPS systems, and traction systems demand power devices that can perform in harsh environments. SiC MOSFETs deliver high efficiency, reduced switching losses, and simplified cooling requirements, leading to lower operating costs. For example, Wolfspeed’s Gen3 SiC MOSFETs provide superior reliability and performance for medium voltage systems.

2. Growing EV and Automotive Applications

Automotive manufacturers are increasingly adopting SiC power devices for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and hybrid EVs. SiC enables:

• Faster charging times
• Longer driving range
• Reduced battery size and weight

Global EV leaders such as Tesla and Toyota have already integrated SiC technology into their vehicles. Supporting this trend, STMicroelectronics introduced new SiC power modules in 2022 to enhance EV performance and efficiency.

3. Renewable Energy Expansion

The renewable sector, particularly solar inverters and energy storage systems, relies on SiC devices for high-efficiency power conversion. SiC technology supports grid stability and sustainable energy integration, aligning with global clean energy initiatives.

Market Segmentation Insights

• By Product Type: MOSFETs lead the segment, holding over 32% share in 2022, due to superior efficiency, ruggedness, and compact design.
• By Voltage: The 600V–1000V segment dominates, accounting for nearly 32% of market share, serving applications like EV chargers, solar inverters, and UPS systems.
• By Region: Asia Pacific leads with 44.23% share in 2022, thanks to its thriving automotive, electronics, and semiconductor industries. North America follows, driven by strong R&D investments and EV adoption.

Key Players and Developments

The market is moderately consolidated, with major players focusing on product innovation and expansion. Prominent companies include Infineon Technologies, Mitsubishi Electric, Wolfspeed, ROHM, ON Semiconductor, and Toshiba.

• Mitsubishi Electric (2023): Built a new wafer plant to boost SiC semiconductor output.
• Microchip Technology (2022): Launched 3.3 kV SiC devices for renewable energy and aerospace.
• Toshiba (2022): Developed advanced SiC MOSFETs with low resistance and high reliability.