Dr Michael M.C. Merlin, University of Edinburgh

This two-year project led by Dr Merlin will bring Ionate’s innovative Hybrid Intelligent Transformer technology to market through the development of a full-scale prototype and testing of a product-grade solution to energy customers. Ionate is a technology startup that has developed this solution, the technological concept of which has been demonstrated by Dr Merlin's lab. 

The Hybrid Intelligent Transformer is designed to optimise power flows in distribution networks by controlling key power characteristics simultaneously, while being a drop-in replacement for existing transformers. This can unlock power capacity, ultimately resolving key issues associated with decarbonisation and decentralisation within the electricity grid.