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Solid State Transformer (SST): strengthening the UK’s position as a leader in next-generation smart grid and renewable energy integration

Date: 20.04.2026

Topics: Power Electronics

EVM Smart grids
A dimly lit data center with rows of server racks illuminated by blue LED lights, extending into the distance. Each rack is filled with multiple servers, and the floor has ventilation grates. The setup gives an organized and futuristic appearance. - CSA Catapult

Solid State Transformer (SST)

Solid State Transformers (SSTs) are emerging as a key technology, forecast to contribute £9 million to the UK economy by 2028. 

They are a key factor in achieving the UK’s Net Zero Strategy, as well as combining a seamless integration of renewable energy sources.  

CSA Catapult’s SST evaluation module (EVM) enabled the Catapult to explore new compound semiconductor technologies and address the limitations of traditional transformers in relation to modern, dynamic power grids. 

The challenge

While conventional transformers are effective for voltage transformation, they lack the flexibility and advanced functionality needed for renewable integration, EV charging, and smart grid upgrades. 

SSTs use power semiconductors, enabling high-frequency control circuits to deliver accurate energy transfer.  

The approach

Developed in 2024, CSA Catapult’s EVM focused on the design and evaluation of a Neutral Point Clamped (NPC) Dual Active Bridge (DAB) converter, enabling improved reliability and advanced grid control. 

The SST EVM project included research, design, prototyping and testing to illustrate the potential of advanced transformer technologies.  

During the project, CSA Catapult conducted a literature review of SST architectures and converter topologies, evaluated DC/DC configurations, performed technical design and simulation, including component selection, power module sizing, and thermal management.  

Activities also included building hardware prototypes and carried out experimental testing and validation up to 16 kW, with plans to scale to 100 kW.  

The outcome

CSA Catapult’s work in advancing SST technologies helped strengthen the UK’s position in next-generation smart grid and renewable energy integration.  

The project enabled CSA Catapult to build advanced expertise in high-frequency magnetics and SiC-based power conversion and control. This allowed CSA Catapult to advance the organisation’s ability to design, optimise, build and evaluate SST technologies. 

In addition to this, CSA Catapult presented the project at the Energy Conversion Congress and Expo (ECCE) 2025, Design and Development of 3/2-Level DAB SiC Converter for SST Applications | IEEE Conference Publication | IEEE Xplore. This enabled the team to share their knowledge, technology capabilities and findings with industry and academia, inspiring the technology community for future projects. 

Impact

AI Data Centres

Leverage Solid State Transformers (SSTs) to fully integrate the power distribution system at the facility level, eliminating the need for separate sidecar power racks.

Impact

Renewables & EVs

Enabling compact conversion to integrate 50 GW offshore wind and the charging infrastructure for 14m EVs by 2030, supporting clean energy and low-carbon transport.

Impact

Grid

Upgrading 230,000 substations for greater resilience and efficiency, delivering energy savings and more sustainable grid operations.

Impact

EV charging

Scaling to 300,000 ultra-fast chargers by 2030, creating a £105m+ market for reliable, low-carbon infrastructure.

Impact

Rail

Electrifying 2,880 diesel locomotives, unlocking a £30m+ opportunity with emission cuts and greener transport.

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