Empower Micro

About Empower Micro

Empower Micro Systems Inc. operated in the power electronics and semiconductor sector, focusing on creating technology for the clean energy and mobility markets. The company was founded in 2011 by Mika Nuotio, who also served as its CEO.

The firm's core business involved the development and licensing of a disruptive power inversion architecture. This technology centered on semiconductors designed to convert direct current (DC) from sources like solar panels and electric vehicle batteries into alternating current (AC) suitable for residential and commercial use. The business model was primarily based on licensing its technology to manufacturers of inverters, photovoltaic (PV) modules, and lithium-ion batteries. This approach targeted a global clientele that included solar panel makers, distributors, installers, and finance companies across the United States, Australia, Germany, and Japan, among others.

A key product was the Genesys 8K, a modular smart home energy platform designed for unified solar and energy storage systems. This platform included components like the module-level 8K PowerBridge inverter and the 8K PowerHub, which acted as a smart energy combiner. The system was engineered to offer high efficiency and reliability while simplifying installation by using standard AC wiring, thereby aiming to reduce balance of system (BOS) costs for installers. Empower Micro Systems raised approximately $20.7 million in funding over several rounds, with its first round in May 2012. The company ceased operations, with its status listed as out of business as of September 2017.