Jason Huang, the General Manager of Sentec Green Technology in Taiwan, was interviewed by 《The Icons》 at the CogX Festival, an annual technology exhibition in the UK. He discussed the trends in the development of compound semiconductor-related industries and the prospects for industrial collaboration between Europe and Asia, including Taiwan and the UK.
Compound Semiconductors Drive Innovation in Electric Vehicles, Renewable Energy, and Power Electronics Applications
Jason Huang provided in-depth insights into the revolutionary contributions of compound semiconductor technology in electric vehicles, renewable energy, and related power electronics applications.
At the recent CogX Festival, he served as a keynote speaker and emphasized the critical role of materials such as silicon carbide (SiC) and gallium nitride (GaN) in the power systems of electric vehicles.
These materials, with their excellent heat management capabilities and energy efficiency, not only enhance the performance of power electronics but also contribute to energy savings and carbon reduction, accelerating carbon neutrality goals.
Huang pointed out that besides improving power electronics efficiency, compound semiconductor technologies also contribute to power density, increased product lifespan, reduced system component usage, and aid companies in achieving carbon footprint goals.
“Efficient energy conversion means less energy is wasted during the conversion process. Taking electric vehicles as an example, this not only reduces operating costs but also minimizes environmental pollution. These innovations are crucial for advancing electric vehicle technology and enhancing market competitiveness.”
Huang also highlighted the role of compound semiconductor technology in improving the overall lifecycle of electric vehicles. “Unlike traditional semiconductors that operate only at temperatures between 100 to 150 degrees Celsius, compound semiconductors can function at 250 degrees Celsius. This not only improves durability but also reduces long-term maintenance costs.” He believes that as these technologies continue to develop and apply, including innovations in electric vehicles, renewable energy, and related power electronics applications, they will become more reliable, more powerful, and more environmentally friendly.
New Regional Shifts in the Semiconductor Industry Due to Geopolitical Influences
Huang also discussed the impact of geopolitical influences and the semiconductor wars between countries, affecting the overall development of the renewable energy and electric vehicle industries, and influencing Sentec’s business expansion. In his view, localization is not only a necessary strategy but also a cross-border corporate responsibility. To promote deep integration into local markets, understanding local consumer needs and through the enthusiastic introduction by local governments to local industries, academic institutions, and research partners, it is possible to accelerate the implementation of local semiconductor strategies and promote green energy technologies to achieve carbon neutrality targets as quickly as possible.
“Through collaboration with local partners, Sentec can adapt to market changes more rapidly. This cooperation extends beyond product development to include market research, brand promotion, and sales strategies.”
Huang stated that Sentec aims to become a leader in the electric vehicle, renewable energy, and related power electronics innovation industries. “This requires a deep understanding of local culture, regulations, and market trends.” He also acknowledged the challenges brought about by globalization, especially under the trend of carbon neutrality, advocating for international cooperation and resource sharing to advance compound semiconductor technology for the prosperity of Taiwan on the global stage.
Through international collaboration, Sentec can bring the latest global technologies and strategies to local markets while showcasing local innovative ideas and products globally, creating a mutually beneficial situation. Huang believes that governments should play an active role in this process, attracting and motivating local enterprises to invest in electric vehicles, renewable energy, and related power electronics applications through friendly policies and tax incentives.
“This not only helps enhance the competitiveness of local industries but also accelerates the achievement of national environmental goals. In this context, Sentec seeks to establish partnerships with governments and other stakeholders to jointly promote green transformation and sustainable development.”
The semiconductor industry in Taiwan holds a significant position globally. Photo by: MIC
Advancing Industry Standardization
Currently, Huang is dedicated to assisting in industry standardization, including the Mobility In Harmony Open EV Consortium (MIH Consortium) and the Taiwan Advanced Automotive Technology Development Association (TADA).
Huang pointed out that the goal of industry standardization is the next-generation mobility solution. “Our current focus is on the next-generation mobility solution. The alliance’s most important task is to define key technologies, develop reference designs and standards, enabling all members to interoperate, reduce entry barriers, accelerate innovation, and shorten development cycles.”
The aim is to accelerate the electric vehicle development cycle from four years to two years and reduce development costs by one-third to one-half. The MIH Consortium’s public model includes three key elements: standardization, modularization, and platformization, significantly lowering the entry barriers for developing electric vehicles and creating an era where everyone has the opportunity to participate in the electric vehicle generation.
Regarding supply chain issues, Huang believes that government policies and tax incentives play a crucial role in promoting supply chain localization: “Through policy support and tax benefits, local production can enhance its competitiveness, which is particularly important for the localization development of the semiconductor industry.” He revealed that Sentec focuses on alliances with local partners as part of its global strategy, not only enhancing the efficiency of the industrial chain but also laying the foundation for Sentec’s expansion in the global market.
Finally, Huang also mentioned how Sentec, through participation in the TADA and the MIH Consortium, contributes to the establishment of electric vehicle technology standards. “Through standardization, Sentec can bring innovation and market vitality to the electric vehicle industry similar to what Android brought to the smartphone industry!”
Jason Huang has been the General Manager of Sentec Green Technology since June 2021. With over 23 years of industry experience accumulated at Sentec E&E Co., Ltd, his expertise includes high-frequency AiP and front-end modules, as well as packaging technology for SiC and GaN power modules. Earlier in his career, Huang also had relevant internships at Panasonic Shikoku Electronics and Taiwan Microelectronics Technologies. He received the Cutting-edge Technology Award at the 2020 World New Energy Vehicle Congress.
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