Energy efficiency

Power Integrations (POWI) is providing student teams in the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge with the RDK-85SLR reference design kit, featuring InnoSwitch3-AQ IC with PowiGaN technology. This allows for a highly efficient (95% across loads) and compact 46-watt power supply, eliminating the need for heat sinks. The kit, inspired by ETH Zurich’s aCentauri team, helps students leverage energy-efficient technologies for sustainable designs. Solar car teams can receive the kit for free by registering online.

Gree Electric’s Chairperson Dong Mingzhu asserted that consumers are “making a mistake” if they don’t use Gree appliances, emphasizing the energy efficiency and health benefits of their products. She specifically highlighted the refrigerators’ ability to keep produce fresh for 20 days, claiming substantial electricity bill savings. This direct marketing approach, though controversial, is a hallmark of Dong’s leadership and contributes to Gree’s brand recognition. She also addressed consumer perceptions regarding air conditioner airflow and health benefits.

Legend Power Systems (LPSIF) received TSX Venture Exchange approval to extend the expiry date of 12,861,553 common share purchase warrants, originally issued in July and August 2023, from 2025 to July 31, 2026, and August 22, 2026, respectively. The exercise price remains at $0.25. Legend Power provides solutions like SmartGATE to enhance building energy efficiency, reduce costs and emissions, and improve asset management. The warrant extension gives holders more time to exercise their rights, but potential future dilution exists.

A new technology for drum washing machines, focusing on accurate perception and dynamic control of dehydration vibration, has achieved a “leading international” level. This innovation utilizes advanced algorithms and sensors to predict and optimize performance, addressing issues like noise and vibration. The technology features multi-objective optimization, precise prediction and control based on drum vibration signals, and dynamic optimization of rotational speed. Early implementations show a 23% reduction in moisture content, 3dBA noise reduction, and 20% less energy consumption, improving both product quality and user experience.

SoftBank and Intel are partnering to develop an AI-specific memory chip, Saimemory, aiming to reduce AI computing power consumption by up to 50%. This stacked DRAM chip, utilizing an innovative wiring architecture, promises improved energy efficiency and supports sustainable AI data centers. With an estimated $64 million investment, a prototype is expected within two years, targeting commercial deployment in the late 2020s, starting with SoftBank’s AI data centers. Other research institutions and the government are expected to offer support as the project progresses.

Hisense’s X3Pro Inverter Wall-Mounted AC addresses rising demand for health-focused air solutions, particularly among pet owners, with 78% prioritizing odor and microbial control. Priced at $381 (with subsidies), it bridges mid-range affordability and premium performance. The unit features medical-grade H13 filtration, Hi-Cat antiviral tech, and dual airflow delivering 110m³/h fresh air, removing 95.3% of PM2.5, 98.05% of formaldehyde, and inactivating 99.98% of H1N1 virions. Its dual-vent design enables 11% faster air exchange and 20% better allergen circulation. Holding 32.6% of China’s 2024 fresh air AC market, the energy-efficient X3Pro operates at 16dB, combining smart climate control with home-health innovation for multifunctional living spaces.