IONATE

IONATE, founded in London in 2019 by Matthew Williams, Roberto Ricci, and Luca Mezossy Dona, develops technology to modernize electricity grids. The company has created a hardware-software solution centered on its Hybrid Intelligent Transformer (HIT), a drop-in replacement for traditional transformers. This technology combines the reliability of conventional transformers with the dynamic control of power electronics, using a patented magnetic core design to manage power flows with minimal energy loss.

Founder and CEO Matthew Williams, an electrical and control systems engineer, identified the need for smarter grid infrastructure while leading an engineering firm in Australia during the country's initial push toward decarbonization. He observed that existing power grids were unprepared for the influx of renewable energy sources, which inspired him to establish IONATE to build a more resilient and flexible grid backbone.

IONATE's business model involves the development and licensing of the HIT, which provides real-time data and control over voltage, reactive power, and harmonics. This enables utility operators to stabilize power flows, increase the grid's capacity for renewable energy, and improve efficiency. The HIT devices are coordinated by the company's AI-enabled Aurora software platform, creating a responsive, smart grid. The company's clients include electricity distribution companies, industrial customers, renewable energy generators, and data center operators. IONATE has established partnerships with major energy players like EDP for pilot projects in Portugal, Spain, and Brazil, and with National Grid in the UK. The company was also selected for NATO's DIANA accelerator to develop dual-use technologies.

As of February 2025, IONATE had raised a total of $21.4 million over five funding rounds, including a $17 million Series A round to accelerate commercialization and expansion into the U.S. market. Key investors include AlbionVC, IQ Capital, IQT, JGC MIRAI Innovation Fund, and the Santander InnoEnergy Climate Fund.

Keywords: smart grid, power flow control, hybrid intelligent transformer, energy transition, grid modernization, real-time data, voltage control, reactive power, power electronics, grid resilience, decarbonization, renewable energy integration, energy infrastructure, electrical engineering, hardware-software solution, AI-enabled platform, utility technology, data center power, grid stability, power quality