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IGBT innovator professor Baliga CooliBlade CEO Janne Suhonen
Nov 6, 2024 1:08:00 PM1 min read

Celebrating Innovation: The Millennium Technology Prize 2024!

Quiz Question: What groundbreaking invention connects computers, electric vehicles, renewable energy, industrial motors, the €1 million Millennium Prize, and CooliBlade, while saving our planet?

Answer: The IGBT power transistor!

 

The revolutionary IGBT (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor) developed by Professor Jayant Baliga has:
– Reduced global CO₂ emissions by over 82 gigatons in 30 years
– Cut lighting energy consumption by 75%
– Enhanced the efficiency of renewable energy integration
– Transformed electric motor efficiency

Last week, at the Millennium Technology Prize ceremony in Espoo, Finland, CooliBlade CEO Janne Suhonen had the honor of meeting the extraordinary Professor Baliga, the recipient of the prestigious €1 million Millennium award.

Professor Baliga’s groundbreaking work in IGBT technology has permanently transformed power electronics. Since its inception in the 1980s, IGBT has become the cornerstone of modern power semiconductor components, revolutionizing electrical energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.

 

The impact? Remarkable.

 

Professor Baliga’s IGBT invention has helped reduce global CO₂ emissions by an astounding 82 gigatons over three decades. It’s no wonder Professor Baliga is known as “the man with the world’s largest negative carbon footprint”!

In the future, Baliga’s invention will be an even more crucial tool in reducing climate emissions. As energy production shifts from combustion to renewable sources, a significant amount of power electronics is needed to connect increasing solar and wind power production to the electrical grid.

 

What is the connection between Professor Baliga’s IGBT invention and CooliBlade?

CooliBlade plays a significant role in energy-saving efforts and reducing climate emissions: it is the next-generation thermal management solutions provider for high-power electronics. CooliBlade’s NEOcore technology enhances IGBT performance by addressing one of its biggest challenges — overheating. By improving aluminum thermal conductivity up to 1000 times, we are pushing the boundaries of power electronics efficiency.

Janne Suhonen, CEO of CooliBlade, explains the significance of CooliBlade’s innovation:
“Efficient cooling has been the eternal challenge in power electronics design. CooliBlade NEOcore technology enables power electronics companies to develop the most reliable and high-performance products for electrification and the green transition. Our thermal management products offer significant benefits: improved energy efficiency, extended equipment lifespan, and reduced carbon footprint.”

During this prestigious Millennium event, Janne and Professor Baliga engaged in an inspiring discussion about the future of IGBT technology and CooliBlade’s innovative thermal management solutions.

CooliBlade sends warm congratulations to Professor Baliga!

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